A suspected bomb explosion has occurred just meters from the Munyonyo Martyrs Shrine as Uganda commemorates Uganda Martyrs Day, one of the country’s most significant religious events.
The blast went off a few minutes before 9:00 a.m., reportedly killing two people; a boda boda rider and a female passenger, who is suspected to have been carrying the explosive device.
The incident has caused alarm among thousands of pilgrims and security personnel present in and around the shrine.
Authorities immediately cancelled the planned 9:00 a.m. Mass at the Munyonyo shrine, and the area has since been cordoned off as investigations continue.
Joint security forces including the Uganda Police, Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), and the Joint Anti-Terrorist Task Force (JATF) have deployed heavily to secure the scene and investigate the nature of the blast.
According to a source within the security establishment, the JATF had prior intelligence indicating a potential terrorist act and was actively monitoring suspects.
However, further details have not yet been officially confirmed.
Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and vigilant as security forces continue to assess the situation.
This is a developing story. More information will be provided as it becomes available.