Suicide bomber killed in Uganda on Christian holy day, army says
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Ugandan forces foil terror plot as female suicide bomber is killed near Kampala shrine on Martyrs Day.
Ugandan security forces killed two individuals described as “armed terrorists,” including a female suicide bomber, on Martyrs Day in the capital, Kampala. The incident occurred on Monday near the Roman Catholic Munyonyo Martyrs’ Shrine, a major religious site where thousands of Christians had gathered to pray and commemorate Uganda’s revered Christian martyrs.
According to army spokesperson Col Chris Magezi, a counter-terrorism unit “intercepted and neutralized” the suspects in Munyonyo, an upscale suburb of the capital. The suspects were reportedly approaching the church on a motorcycle when the incident unfolded. One of them, a woman, was allegedly carrying powerful explosives, indicating a potential suicide bombing attempt.
Although local media outlets and eyewitnesses reported an explosion near the church, Col Magezi did not officially confirm that detail. However, he did emphasize that security forces remain on “heightened alert” across the country in anticipation of further threats.
Footage from Uganda’s NBS Television showed security personnel and forensic teams sealing off the area and examining the scene following the operation. Eyewitnesses described a loud blast as the suspects neared the shrine, reinforcing fears of what could have been a deadly terror attack targeting the faithful.
The army believes the suspects were affiliated with the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a rebel group with ties to the Islamic State (IS) group. The ADF has a long history of violence in Uganda and neighboring regions. Although the group has not commented on the incident, authorities say it fits a broader pattern of planned attacks.
Uganda’s military has consistently warned of ADF plots against public gatherings, churches, schools, and urban centers. In 2023, the ADF was blamed for a brutal attack on a school in western Uganda that resulted in the deaths of nearly 40 students—one of the country’s deadliest terror acts in recent memory.
Martyrs Day is one of the most significant Christian observances in Uganda and across the African continent. Held every June 3rd, it honors 45 Ugandan Christians—22 Catholics and 23 Anglicans—who were killed between 1885 and 1887 under the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II, then the monarch of the Buganda Kingdom.
These early believers were martyred for refusing to abandon their faith and convert back to traditional religion. Many were burned alive, executed by sword, or subjected to other brutal methods of killing. Their steadfast devotion continues to inspire millions of pilgrims who make the journey to Namugongo and Munyonyo each year.
Security agencies had already implemented heightened surveillance and patrols in anticipation of this year’s celebrations, given previous intelligence that religious gatherings were being targeted by terrorist groups. Monday’s incident underscores the ongoing threat faced by Ugandans during major religious and national events.
Despite the incident, Martyrs Day observances continued under tight security, with local leaders urging calm and reaffirming their commitment to the safety of all citizens.
As investigations continue, the army has vowed to remain vigilant in its counter-terrorism efforts. Col Magezi called on the public to remain alert and to report any suspicious activity. “We are committed to protecting the lives of Ugandans and preserving the sanctity of their right to worship without fear,” he said.
The failed attack is a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by extremist groups in the region and the challenges facing Uganda’s security forces as they work to prevent further acts of violence. For now, the swift action of counter-terror units appears to have averted a potential tragedy on one of the country’s most sacred days.
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