Two suspected members of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), including a female suicide bomber, died in an explosion in Kampala, Uganda. This incident happened near the Munyonyo Martyrs’ Shrine, where people had gathered to honor the 19th-century Christians who were martyred for their beliefs.
The explosion occurred on a Tuesday as crowds were assembling for Martyrs’ Day, a significant religious holiday in Uganda. Fortunately, there were no reports of civilian injuries. The blast took place in the Munyonyo neighborhood, an upscale area of the capital.
Chris Magezi, a spokesperson for the Ugandan army, stated that a counterterrorism unit intercepted the two suspects. He confirmed that one was a female bomber carrying powerful explosives. Footage from local news showed a damaged motorcycle and debris scattered on the road, indicating the force of the blast.
Police Chief Abas Byakagaba noted that the explosion happened while the two were riding the motorcycle, but he emphasized that there were no nearby civilians who were hurt. As of now, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
Authorities believe the suspects were connected to the ADF, a rebel group that began in Uganda during the 1990s and later moved its base to the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The ADF has pledged allegiance to ISIS and has been linked to several deadly bombings in Uganda in the past.
The United Nations has accused the ADF of committing numerous atrocities, including the deaths of thousands of civilians in the region. In response to this incident, security forces have increased patrols in Kampala to ensure public safety.