The Nigerian Air Force has destroyed a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) factory located in Grazah, a remote area within the Mandara Mountains of Borno State.Â
The airstrike, which also targeted and eliminated two gun trucks and some terrorists, was carried out by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, marking a significant achievement in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against terrorism.
Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, who confirmed the operation to the Press on Thursday, described it as a crucial milestone in the fight against the insurgents that have plagued the region.
The decision to carry out the strike was driven by a series of recent attacks on innocent civilians in Borno State, many of which involved the use of IEDs and suicide bombers.
In response, the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai intensified efforts to locate and eliminate the sources of these deadly devices.
Gabkwet revealed that intelligence reports had identified Grazah in the Mandara Hills as a potential site for an IED factory.
This intelligence suggested that the factory had been relocated multiple times to evade detection and destruction by Nigerian security forces.
Initially located in Gwoza, the factory was later moved to the Timbuktu Triangle in the Sambisa Forest, before being finally established in Grazah.
The frequent relocation of the factory was attributed to the intense military pressure exerted on terrorist strongholds by the combined efforts of Operation Hadin Kai security apparatus.
For several weeks, the location in Grazah had been under close surveillance. During this period, various installations were observed, and the activities of armed terrorists in the area were consistent with those typically seen when guarding a strategically important site.
Additionally, two gun trucks were spotted hidden beneath a large tree near the suspected IED factory, further indicating the presence of a significant target.
Given these findings, the decision was made to launch an airstrike on the location. The operation was meticulously planned, and the targets were effectively acquired and destroyed.
“The aftermath of the airstrike was marked by a thick cloud of smoke rising from the site, confirming the destruction of the suspected IED factory, the two gun trucks, and the neutralization of several terrorists.”
“This operation underscores the ongoing commitment of the Nigerian Air Force and the entire Operation Hadin Kai team to eradicating terrorism in the region and protecting the lives of civilians from the threats posed by insurgents.”
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