What Happened After the Bomb Explosion in Kampala?

Synopsis
In the aftermath of a bomb explosion in Munyonyo, Kampala, authorities call for calm as investigations unfold. With no civilian casualties reported, the public is urged to remain vigilant and continue their celebrations. This incident raises concerns amidst the backdrop of Martyrs' Day festivities, a national holiday attracting pilgrims. Learn more about the ongoing situation.
Key Takeaways
- Public urged to remain calm amidst investigation
- No civilian injuries reported in the explosion
- Martyrs' Day celebrations ongoing despite incident
- Security agencies deployed for thorough investigation
- Previous attacks linked to the ADF
Kampala, June 3 (NationPress) The Ugandan police have called on the community to stay composed and carry on with their daily routines while security forces conduct an investigation into a bomb blast that took place on Tuesday near a church in Munyonyo, a suburb of the capital city, Kampala.
Inspector General of Police Abbas Byakagaba informed reporters at the location that multiple security agencies have been mobilized to carry out an extensive investigation. He confirmed that there were no civilian casualties in this incident, except for the two suspected terrorists who were on a motorcycle.
"It is premature to provide definitive information. We urge our citizens to stay vigilant and be aware of their surroundings. The situation is under control, and they should continue with the celebration of Martyrs' Day and other activities. We guarantee their safety," stated Byakagaba.
Previously, military spokesperson Chris Magezi disclosed to Xinhua via phone that the army had neutralized two suspected suicide bombers, one of whom was female.
According to Magezi, an explosive device detonated during an interception attempt, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
A significant presence of police and military personnel was noted at the scene, which was sealed off, with roads leading to the area obstructed.
An eyewitness reported to Xinhua that the suspects, comprising a man and a woman, were traveling on a motorcycle.
"When they arrived at the church where many were gathered for prayers, the woman could not enter due to the tight security," the witness recounted.
"Shortly after they left, an explosion occurred, which resulted in their deaths."
This incident unfolded while the nation was marking Martyrs' Day, a public holiday that attracts numerous pilgrims from both Uganda and abroad.
The last comparable attack in Kampala took place in November 2021, when terrorists detonated bombs near a police station and government buildings.
The Ugandan military attributed those attacks to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a rebel group linked to the Islamic State in Central Africa. The ADF, which originated as an insurgent group in Uganda, is presently located in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.