By A potential terrorist attack was thwarted Tuesday morning after two suspected extremists died in an explosion while allegedly transporting an improvised explosive device near the Munyonyo Martyrs Shrine, just hours before Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations peaked in nearby Namugongo.
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According to preliminary reports, the suspects, riding on a motorcycle, were intercepted by security forces in what military officials described as a preemptive, intelligence-led operation. The blast occurred before the suspects could reach their intended target. Both individuals died instantly in the explosion.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abbas Byakagaba, who arrived at the scene shortly after the incident, confirmed that no civilians or bystanders were injured in the blast. He reassured the public that security agencies were fully in control of the situation.
“There was indeed an explosion involving a motorcycle, but the most important thing is that the public should remain calm. Our security teams are on the ground, and the area has been secured. We have cordoned off the scene for forensic investigations,” said IGP Byakagaba.
He emphasized the importance of community vigilance, urging members of the public to report any suspicious individuals, packages, or behavior to nearby security officers. “Security is a collective responsibility. Your eyes and ears can help prevent future incidents,” he said.
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) confirmed the explosion was the result of a successful counter-terrorism strike. UPDF spokesperson Col. Chris Magezi earlier noted that the deceased were carrying explosives intended for use during the crowded Martyrs Day celebrations. He reiterated that security personnel had been monitoring the suspects for days and acted swiftly to neutralize the threat.
The incident occurred as tens of thousands of faithful from across Uganda and beyond converged on Namugongo for the annual Uganda Martyrs Day pilgrimage. President Yoweri Museveni, along with other dignitaries, is attending the high-profile national event commemorating the Christian martyrs killed in the late 19th century under the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II.
Security around the Namugongo and Munyonyo shrines has since been reinforced, with joint police and military deployments visible throughout the area. Sniffer dogs, aerial surveillance, and undercover personnel have all been integrated into the security operation to ensure pilgrims’ safety.
This attempted attack echoes the November 2021 Kampala twin bombings that targeted the Central Police Station and Parliamentary Avenue, killing at least 10 people and injuring dozens. Those attacks were claimed by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a terror outfit with ties to the Islamic State and operating in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Since then, Uganda’s security forces, in coordination with the Congolese military (FARDC), have waged an aggressive offensive codenamed Operation Shujaa against the ADF. The campaign has led to the elimination of several ADF commanders, the destruction of key camps, and the liberation of numerous hostages. However, remnants of the group are believed to be retreating deeper inland in DRC, making them harder to track and neutralize.
Despite the persistent threat of terrorism, the IGP affirmed that Uganda remains committed to ensuring public safety, especially during national gatherings like Martyrs Day.
“We will not allow the enemies of peace to disrupt our sacred days. Today’s incident is a reminder of the importance of constant vigilance, and I want to assure Ugandans that all celebrations will go on as planned, safely,” IGP Byakagaba stated.
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