The Ugandan police have recently made significant progress in their investigation into a bombing plot in the capital city of Kampala. Another five individuals have been apprehended, and five additional explosives have been discovered, all believed to be connected to an Islamist rebel group. The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), operating from the jungles of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), has pledged allegiance to the militant movement, Islamic State (IS), and has been responsible for numerous attacks on civilians and military targets in both Congo and Uganda over the years.
The initial suspect was detained with a bomb in a bag outside a crowded church on Sunday, prompting a manhunt that led to the arrest of five more individuals and the recovery of five additional improvised explosive devices. The police safely detonated the bombs and successfully retrieved various items such as nails, batteries, and powder detonators.
In a statement released late Monday, the police emphasized the continued existence of a threat environment and called for heightened vigilance among Ugandans as they engage in activities such as shopping, traveling, attending places of worship, and participating in celebrations. They urged the public to remain alert for suspicious objects, unusual activity, or suspicious behavior.
The ADF and Islamic State have been held responsible for several attacks, including a horrifying massacre in June of this year that resulted in the deaths of 42 individuals, predominantly students. Additionally, suicide bombings in 2021 claimed the lives of seven people.
