Summary:

• On December 30, 2023, a bomb was discovered at a fuel station in Kasese, Uganda, prompting police and the army to respond; the incident follows a series of attacks in Western Uganda, leading to increased security measures in identified risk zones.

On Saturday, December 30, 2023, the police and the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) made a discovery of an explosive device at a fuel station in Kasese.

The bomb had been strategically planted at a fuel station located in Kadindimo Trading Center, within Kadindimo Parish, Rwimi sub-county along Kasese Road. According to Colonel Deo Akiiki, the deputy army spokesperson, the bomb was located in a trench approximately six meters away from the fuel pump.

Colonel Akiiki provided details, stating, “A bomb was found at the petrol station of Byaruhanga in Kadindimo Trading Center, Kadindimo Parish, Rwimi sub-county. It was placed in the trench, approximately six meters away from the fuel pump.”

He further emphasized that both the police and the army are actively managing the situation on the ground and urged the public to remain vigilant, emphasizing the challenging nature of the situation within his operational area. Akiiki cautioned, “Police and the army are present to address the situation. Let’s stay vigilant, as the situation is currently unfavorable in our operational zones.”

This development comes in the wake of a series of attacks in Western Uganda’s Rwenzori subregion by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). As a response, the army is in the process of recruiting local defense personnel to enhance security in high-risk areas. The identified risky zones include Kasese, Bunyagabo, Kitagwenda, Kamwenge, and Kyenjonjo.