On Tuesday, Ugandan security forces stopped a suicide bomb attack that was meant to target pilgrims visiting Munyonyo for Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations. The police released a photo of one of the attackers a woman who was killed during the incident. Officials later revealed that she was the daughter of one of the suicide bombers who took part in the deadly attack at Kampala Central Police Station in November 2021.
The woman was reportedly wearing a suicide vest and was trying to enter Munyonyo Basilica, a popular religious site that draws thousands of pilgrims during the annual celebration. The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) counter-terrorism unit acted quickly after receiving intelligence reports. When they tried to stop the woman, she was shot, which caused the suicide vest she was wearing to explode. She died on the spot.
Another male suspect who was with her was also killed during the operation. According to officials, the two arrived on a motorcycle that was destroyed in the blast. The explosion scattered human remains around the area. The site is now under tight security, and forensic experts are examining the scene to gather more evidence.
This attempted attack is linked to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a terrorist group that has ties to the Islamic State (ISIS). In 2021, ADF carried out deadly suicide bombings in Kampala, including one outside the Central Police Station and another near Parliament Avenue. Those attacks killed and injured several people and were some of the worst Uganda had seen in recent years.
Col. Chris Magezi, who is the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, said in a statement on Tuesday:
“A UPDF counter-terrorism unit this morning intercepted and neutralized two armed terrorists in Munyonyo, an upscale city suburb. It was an intelligence-led operation, and the security services are on heightened alert to ensure the Martyrs Day celebrations proceed without disruption.”
Uganda Martyrs Day is held every year to honor 45 Christian converts who were killed between 1885 and 1887 for refusing to renounce their faith. It is one of the biggest religious events in Uganda, attracting millions of pilgrims from around the country and even from other parts of the world.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the attempted attack and have increased security across Kampala and especially around religious sites. The goal is to ensure that this year’s Martyrs Day celebrations go on peacefully, without any threat to the lives of pilgrims or worshippers.
