Martyrs Day: Two suspected suicide bombers shot dead in Munyonyo

Two suspected terrorists were shot dead by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) counter-terrorism unit in Munyonyo, a leafy Kampala suburb, in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

According to security sources, the suspects who were reportedly armed were intercepted and killed during an intelligence-led operation as part of heightened security measures ahead of today’s Martyrs Day celebrations.

Colonel Chris Magezi, the acting director of Defence Public Information, confirmed the operation, saying it was based on credible intelligence linked to potential threats to national security.

“The security services are on heightened alert to ensure the Martyrs Day celebrations proceed without disruption,” Magezi said in a statement issued Tuesday morning.

He urged the public to remain calm but vigilant, and to report any suspicious individuals, objects, or activities to security authorities for immediate attention.

Martyrs Day, held annually on June 3, commemorates Uganda’s Christian martyrs and is one of the country’s most significant religious and public events. Pilgrims from across the country and beyond typically converge at the Namugongo shrines to honour the occasion.

In the lead-up to this year’s celebration, security agencies have been conducting routine sweeps and surveillance in and around Kampala, with a particular focus on potential soft targets. While the identities and affiliations of the deceased suspects have not been released, authorities say investigations are ongoing.