FBI Conducts Explosives Training

The Newark Division of the FBI recently presented an improvised explosives demonstration at Middlesex County College located in Edison, New Jersey. The demonstration was part of a three-day National Improvised Explosive Familiarization (NIEF) training course offered by the FBI. This course was designed to train bomb technicians, first responders, and the chemical industry on the potential uses of common industrial and household chemicals in the manufacturing of improvised explosives.

The NIEF initiative supports the FBI’s top priority to protect the United States from terrorist attacks by training our investigators and law enforcement partners in regard to the emerging improvised explosive threat. The NIEF initiative is a partnership between the FBI Weapons of Mass Destruction Directorate, FBI Laboratory, and FBI Critical Incident Response Group, along with the 56 FBI field offices and the more than 100 Joint Terrorism Task Forces based out of those FBI field offices.

Participants in the training received in-depth instruction and course materials in accordance with their respective roles, responsibilities, and technical certifications. The goal of this training is to enhance awareness and outreach programs to first responders and to inform private sector wholesalers, distributors, and retailers of precursor chemicals that can be used by terrorists or experimenters to make improvised explosives.

“One of our best defenses against terrorists attack is a well-informed public capable of recognizing persons who pose a risk to our society,” said Aaron T. Ford, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Newark Division. “This training is a valuable opportunity to exchange information and raise awareness with the general public.”

Attendees to the explosives demonstration witnessed over a dozen examples of improvised explosive and incendiary mixtures that have been used by terrorists around the world. Subject matter experts were on hand to discuss the threat posed by the readily available chemical precursors for these mixtures.

Photos from the day’s events: