Ugandan Army Hunt Suspected ‘ADF Terrorists’ Following Explosions in Kampala

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Summary:

• Security agencies are hunting suspected terrorists in Kampala following two explosions, attributed to ADF rebels by President Museveni, with increased vigilance and guidelines implemented.

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Security agencies have initiated a manhunt for suspected terrorists accused of placing two explosive devices in bustling townships within the Kampala Metropolitan area. The blasts occurred at approximately 9:30 pm in Kabalagala, Makindye Division, and Nansana Municipality in Wakiso District. Fortunately, no lives were lost, but one individual, identified as Joy Nakasagga, a 23-year-old food vendor in Kabalagala, sustained injuries.

President Museveni attributed the explosions to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels and commended the vigilance of the public and security forces for preventing casualties. The incidents occurred less than a month after the US and UK governments issued terrorism alerts, urging their nationals to avoid crowded areas.

Security personnel from the police and military cordoned off the crime scenes for investigation. Maj Charles Kabona, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) 1st Infantry Division spokesperson, revealed that one of the devices was an improvised explosive device (IED) commonly used by ADF terrorists.

Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud bang, with smoke covering the area. The lack of CCTV coverage on the road and numerous shortcuts to the slums posed challenges in tracking the suspects. Police detectives recorded statements from eyewitnesses to aid the investigation.

In Nansana, Mr. Joseph Kizito, the defence secretary of Nabweru North II, reported the blast damaging a vacant double-room rental. Fortunately, no injuries occurred, but the incident raised concerns about tenant screening. Witnesses, like Ms. Harriet Nakaweesi, expressed the shock caused by the blast.

Mr. Shafiq Ali Nsubuga, the Nansana Municipality deputy resident division commissioner (RDC), issued new guidelines, urging landlords to obtain tenants’ National Identity cards and letters from previous residences. Additionally, he advised businesses, especially bars, to use metallic detectors to screen clients before granting access to their premises.