The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) said it successfully destroyed a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) factory in Grazah, located in the Mandara Hills of Borno State on August 2, 2024.
Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, explained that the airstrike followed credible intelligence reports.
These reports, he stated, revealed that the IED factory, which had relocated several times due to intense military pressure, was now based in Grazah.
The factory had initially been in Gwoza, then moved to the Timbuktu Triangle in Sambisa Forest, before finally being traced to Grazah.
“Concerned by recent attacks, especially on innocent civilians in Borno State using Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and suicide bombers, and in a bid to achieve the mandate of the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, air strikes were conducted on terrorists’ enclaves at Grazah, a location deep in the Mandara Hills, on August 2, 2024,” he said.
The site had been under surveillance for weeks, with observations indicating it was a key strategic location for terrorists. Additionally, two gun trucks were spotted near the factory.
“For weeks, the suspected IED factory at Grazah was under close surveillance,” Gabkwet said.
“The site was consistently observed, with various installations and the presence of armed terrorists suggesting that it was a strategic location.
“Additionally, two gun trucks were identified, hidden under a large tree near the suspected factory,” he said.
The airstrike effectively destroyed the suspected IED factory and the two gun trucks, and neutralised several terrorists.
“Consequently, the targets were acquired and effectively destroyed. The aftermath of the air strikes, followed by a thick cloud of smoke, indicated that the suspected IED factory, as well as the two gun trucks, were effectively destroyed, while several terrorists were neutralised,” he disclosed.
Gabkwet stated that this operation is a significant part of the ongoing efforts by the Nigerian military to dismantle terrorist networks and prevent further attacks on civilians.
The success of this mission is seen as a major step towards achieving the goals of Operation Hadin Kai, aimed at countering terrorism in northeastern Nigeria.