04 Dec 2023 | 12:18 PM UTC
Uganda: Increased security likely nationwide through at least late December after bombings in Kampala Dec. 2
Heightened security likely across Uganda, specifically Kampala, through at least late December following bombings in the capital Dec. 2.
Officials will likely maintain increased security nationwide, particularly in Kampala and other urban centers, through at least late December. Security forces responded to two bombings in the Kabalagala and Nabweru areas of the capital on Dec. 2. The explosions caused one injury to the owner of the targeted business in Kabalagala. Officials attributed the bombings to the Islamic State (IS)-aligned Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) and announced that the ADF leader behind the blasts is also responsible for previous similar incidents, with the main targets being gatherings, churches, bars, and schools. Security forces have thwarted several planned bomb attacks in recent months, including in Kampala, and occasionally announce the arrest of suspects suspected to be part of terrorist sleeper cells.
Increased security measures, including checkpoints, patrols, and random vehicle and baggage searches, are likely. Localized transport disruptions could occur in areas with a heavy security presence and subject to security operations. Further attacks are possible in the near term.
Plan for heightened security in Kampala and other urban centers over the coming days. Exercise heightened vigilance near potential attack targets, including bars, schools, 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.
Uganda faces a threat nationwide from terrorist groups such as the ADF. Although originally 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 at border areas against ADF strongholds; hundreds of militants were reportedly killed since 2021. Further attacks remain possible nationwide, notably in main urban centers and areas bordering the DRC.
