On Saturday, May 4, 2024, joint security agencies cautioned landlords and residents across Uganda to remain vigilant against suspicious individuals seeking to rent properties, fearing potential terrorist activities.
This warning followed an incident where security personnel cordoned off Kwata zone, Komamboga, Kawempe Division, Kampala, acting on intelligence regarding improvised explosive devices (IEDs) allegedly present in a residence.
An improvised explosive device (IED) is a homemade bomb typically used by criminals, vandals, terrorists, or insurgents. These devices are described by security experts as destructive tools meant to harm, incapacitate, or distract.
Director Defence Public Information, Brig. Gen. Felix Kulayigye, disclosed that collaboration with vigilant civilians aided in gathering intelligence and apprehending suspected terrorists.
During the operation, security forces directed their attention to a house in Kwata Zone, Komamboga Parish, where they discovered four IEDs and numerous rounds of ammunition.
Brig. Gen. Kulayigye attributed the success of the operation to intelligence obtained from suspected rebels captured in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Among those in custody are Augustine Kalanzi, apprehended in Masaka, Suleiman Nsubuga from Busia, and Swaleh Abubakar arrested in Zambia. These individuals are believed to be associated with a group led by one Punisher, alias Meddie Nsubuga, alias Nkalubo, accused of orchestrating terrorist activities, including IED deployments and targeted assassinations.
Major Charles Kabona, spokesperson for UPDF First Division, confirmed that the seized bombs were linked to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) terrorists. Alongside the bombs, military equipment and ammunition were also discovered.
The ongoing efforts against terrorist groups stem from Operation Shujaa, a joint security initiative launched in November 2021 involving the UPDF and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC). This operation aimed to counter ADF attacks, including bombings in Kampala.
President Yoweri Museveni reiterated the commitment to eradicate the ADF threat, emphasizing the cooperation between Uganda and the DRC in combating terrorism. Despite some ADF splinter groups attempting to re-enter Uganda, security measures remain heightened to prevent further attacks.
