The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have confirmed the killing of two suspected terrorists in a counter-terrorism operation in Munyonyo, an upscale suburb of Kampala. The incident occurred this morning around 9:00 AM, approximately 300 meters from the Munyonyo Catholic Basilica.
According to a statement issued by Defence Public Information Officer, Col. Chris Magezi, the operation was intelligence-led and intended to avert potential threats to the Martyrs Day celebrations scheduled later this week.
“One of the suspects was a female suicide bomber, carrying powerful explosives,” Magezi said via his official X (formerly Twitter) account. “The operation was conducted swiftly to eliminate a real and immediate threat. We are on heightened alert.”
Reports indicate that the two suspects were riding a motorcycle when the bomb they were carrying detonated prematurely, killing them instantly. Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud blast followed by a gruesome scene with body parts scattered near the site of the explosion.
Security sources confirmed that personnel from the Joint Anti-Terrorism Task Force (JATT) and other operatives had already surrounded the area by the time of the explosion.
As of Tuesday afternoon, the area had been cordoned off as forensic teams collected evidence and cleared debris.
Authorities have urged the public to remain calm but vigilant, and to report any suspicious individuals or activities to security agencies.