Uganda: Authorities foil bomb attack in Kampala Sept. 3

Event

Authorities announced that they foiled a bomb attack at a church, the Rubaga Miracle Center, in Kampala on Sept. 3. Security forces arrested a man entering the church with an improvised explosive device in his backpack after they received intelligence reports. Police officials also launched a manhunt to locate three accomplices planning to target other areas in the country.

Increased security measures, including checkpoints, patrols, and random vehicle and baggage searches, are likely in Kampala. Localized transport disruptions could occur in areas with a heavy security presence and subject to security operations.

Context

Uganda faces a threat nationwide from terrorist groups such as the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). Although initially a Ugandan-based group, the ADF operates mainly in the DRC's North Kivu and Ituri provinces, where it has been implicated in dozens of attacks, including bombings. The ADF was also blamed for suicide bombings in Kampala in late 2021. In the aftermath, Uganda launched a joint security operation (Operation Shujja) with DRC in border areas against ADF strongholds, reportedly killing hundreds of militants 2022. The last large-scale attack in Uganda targeted a school in Mpondwe, Western Region, on June 16, during which armed assailants killed at least 42 people, primarily children.

Further attacks remain possible nationwide, notably in main urban centers and areas bordering the DRC.

Advice

Plan for heightened security in Kampala and other urban areas over the coming days. Exercise heightened vigilance near potential attack targets, including religious places, public gatherings, government, diplomatic, security buildings, and other crowded or sensitive locations. Heed the instructions of local authorities; remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.