Munyonyo —Security forces foiled a potentially catastrophic suicide bombing attempt at Munyonyo Martyrs Shrine during this year’s Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations, intercepting a female terrorist just 600 meters from the main Catholic shrine.
Speaking to the media, Colonel Chris Magezi, the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, confirmed that the attacker—identified as Aisha Katushabe, alias Byaruhanga Sumaya, also known as Kabonesa—was wearing an improvised explosive device (IED) vest and was riding on a motorcycle en route to the crowded pilgrimage site.
“If she had managed to infiltrate the shrine, we would be talking about a very different story today. But thanks to the vigilance of our counterterrorism units, disaster was averted,” said Col Magezi.
Deep ADF Links
Preliminary intelligence reveals that the female suicide bomber had deep ties to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) terror group. She is not only the wife of a senior ADF commander, who was killed by Ugandan security forces in 2021, but also the daughter of the suicide bomber who detonated a bomb at Kampala’s Central Police Station (CPS) in 2021, killing several people.
“Our findings show that she has a history with ADF operations. Her husband was among the top ADF operatives and was killed in action. She was also in custody previously, in October 2023, before being released,” Magezi added.
Target Was Martyrs Day Pilgrims
The foiled attack came at a time when millions of pilgrims from Uganda and beyond had gathered at Namugongo to commemorate Uganda Martyrs Day, an annual religious holiday that draws huge crowds.
Security agencies had been on high alert after receiving intelligence reports that ADF operatives were planning to target the event. Two days before Martyrs Day, security forces arrested another suspect who was found with laptops, rounds of ammunition, and other suspicious materials.
“He gave us very useful intelligence that enabled today’s successful interception,” Col Magezi noted.
Security Commended
Col Magezi praised the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Uganda Police, and intelligence agencies for their coordinated efforts in keeping the public safe.
“It could have been a disaster, but our security agencies once again delivered. Faithfuls have gone back to their homes safely thanks to the tireless efforts of these men and women,” he said.
A Message of Vigilance
As investigations continue, the security agencies are calling on the public to remain vigilant, especially during major national events.
The foiled bombing is a reminder of the persistent threat posed by terror groups like the ADF, even as the country marks a solemn day of religious unity and national remembrance. No injuries or fatalities were reported, and authorities are continuing to follow leads on other potential threats linked to the foiled plot.