Following a joint operation between security agencies and the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Ltd (UEDCL), 17 individuals have been charged with terrorism following widespread alleged vandalism of electricity infrastructure.
The suspects, including Joseph Ssemanda, Emmanuel Kato, and Yasin Mutyaba, were arraigned before the Nakawa Chief Magistrates Court.
According to the charge sheet, the charges stem from incidents occurring between 2022 and May 2025 across several districts: Kampala Metropolitan Area, Luweero, Nakasongola, Mityana, Kiboga, and Mubende.
Authorities allege the group targeted power infrastructure to intimidate the public and pressure the government on political, social, and economic fronts.
The acts caused major disruptions, including power cuts at critical sites such as Luweero Industries and Nakasongola Military Hospital. These disruptions resulted in significant load shedding, economic losses, and service interruptions for both domestic and commercial electricity users.
The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity near power installations to local leaders, security agencies, or UEDCL.
