The female bomber, who was killed in the operation, has been identified as the daughter of the suicide bomber who blew himself up at Kampala Central Police Station bomb blast in 2021.
A chilling plot to disrupt Uganda’s annual Martyrs Day celebrations was foiled on Tuesday morning, June 3, 2025 when security agencies intercepted and neutralized two armed terrorists at Munyonyo Basilica at the outskirts of Kampala city.
The suspects, a man and a woman, are believed to have been attempting to access Munyonyo Basilica, a key pilgrimage site, while wearing suicide vestments.
The female bomber, who was killed in the operation, has been identified as the daughter of the suicide bomber who blew himself up at Kampala Central Police Station bomb blast in 2021.
The 2021 terrorist attack in Kampala City claimed by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), resulted in several deaths and marked a deadly escalation in urban terror operations.
According to Colonel Chris Magezi, the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, the operation was intelligence-led, and the security services who are on high alert to ensure the celebrations proceed without disruption.
“Our UPDF counter-terrorism unit intercepted and neutralized two armed terrorists in Munyonyo,” Col. Magezi said in a statement.
The suspects had arrived at the scene on a bodaboda motorcycle, which was destroyed in the blast.
Human remains were recovered, and the area remains under heavy security as forensic teams commence with the investigations.
The foiled attack is a stark reminder of the threats Uganda faces from terrorist groups.
Despite the foiled attack, the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations are proceeding, with millions of pilgrims gathered to commemorate the execution of 45 Christian converts between 1885 and 1887.
The event draws pilgrims from Uganda, East Africa, and beyond, making it one of the country’s most significant religious events.
The bravery and vigilant security forces are working tirelessly to ensure that the celebrations remain safe and peaceful.