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Uganda security forces have neutralized two suspected rebels in a deadly explosion near the Munyonyo Martyrs Shrine in Kampala, intensifying counterterrorism efforts ahead of the country’s largest religious gathering. The blast, which occurred early Tuesday morning, killed a male and female suspect believed to be linked to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a rebel group with ties to the Islamic State.
Authorities confirmed that the explosion was part of an intelligence-led operation by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), aimed at preventing a planned attack during Martyrs Day celebrations. The suspects, riding a motorcycle, were intercepted near the church compound when the explosive device detonated, killing both individuals instantly.
Eyewitnesses described the blast as alarmingly loud, with security personnel swiftly cordoning off the area to prevent further disruptions. Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Col Chris Magezi, stated that the operation was a preemptive measure to ensure public safety. “A UPDF counter-terrorism unit intercepted and neutralized two armed terrorists in Munyonyo. One of the terrorists, a female, was a suicide bomber laden with powerful explosives,” Magezi said.
The explosion occurred approximately 30 kilometers from the main Martyrs Day events in Wakiso District, where over two million people were expected to gather at the Namugongo Catholic and Anglican shrines. Despite the incident, religious services proceeded without interruption, with President Yoweri Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni attending prayers at the Anglican shrine.
Ugandan police chief Abas Byakagaba urged the public to remain calm but vigilant, emphasizing that security forces were in control of the situation. “We are preserving the scene to ensure a thorough investigation. So far, no bystanders were injured or killed apart from the two suspects on the motorcycle,” Byakagaba stated.
Uganda has faced repeated threats from the ADF, which has been responsible for multiple bombings in Kampala in recent years. The rebel group, originally founded by Ugandan Muslims in the 1990s, fled into eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where it has been blamed for thousands of civilian deaths. Security analysts warn that the latest incident underscores the persistent threat posed by extremist factions operating in the region.
Authorities have heightened security measures across Kampala, deploying additional personnel to key locations to prevent further attacks. The government has urged citizens to report any suspicious activity, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding public spaces during national events.
As Uganda continues its fight against insurgent groups, the successful interception of the suspected rebels highlights the country’s proactive approach to counterterrorism. The investigation into the explosion remains ongoing, with officials working to determine whether additional threats exist.