Security has been significantly heightened at the Catholic and Anglican Martyrs’ Shrines in Namugongo following a bomb explosion at the Munyonyo Martyrs’ Shrine earlier this morning.
The blast, which was reportedly caused by an improvised explosive device carried on a motorcycle, claimed the lives of two suspected suicide bombers.
The Uganda Police Force and Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) immediately swung into action, intensifying surveillance and deploying additional forces to secure pilgrimage sites ahead of Martyrs’ Day celebrations.
Shortly after news of the explosion reached Namugongo, security teams in the Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) monitoring room were directed to focus on all entry and exit points.
Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Frank Mwesigwa, the Director of Police Operations, and Military Police Commandant Brigadier General William Bainomugisha, oversaw the rapid adjustment in surveillance priorities, especially in areas with large crowds.
Special Forces Command (SFC) vehicles, including the commonly known Toyota Hiace “drones,” began patrolling the area.
These operations were conducted in conjunction with the Field Force Unit (FFU) and UPDF soldiers, who directed pilgrims to keep to the pavements.
This was done to ensure main roads remain accessible for emergency responses in the event of any security threats.
According to Col Chris Magezi, Acting UPDF Spokesperson, the explosion in Munyonyo was the result of an intelligence-led operation by the army’s counter-terrorism unit.
“A UPDF counter-terrorism team this morning intercepted and neutralised two armed terrorists in Munyonyo, an upscale city suburb,” Col Magezi stated.
“Security agencies are now on heightened alert to ensure Martyrs’ Day celebrations proceed without disruption.”
Inspector General of Police Abbas Byakagaba earlier confirmed that the explosion occurred on a motorcycle, killing the two suspects instantly.
Authorities are urging the public to remain calm but vigilant. “Report any suspicious individuals, objects, or activities to security personnel immediately,” Col Magezi added.
Meanwhile, the number of arrests linked to petty crimes around the shrine areas has risen.
While Deputy Inspector General of Police James Ochaya reported 80 arrests yesterday, security sources now put the figure at 113.
These sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, emphasized that the increased arrests are part of a broader effort to maintain order during the annual pilgrimage.
Martyrs’ Day, celebrated every June 3rd, attracts thousands of pilgrims from across Uganda and the East African region.
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