Security forces have confirmed that a female suicide bomber who died in an explosion near Munyonyo Martyrs Basilica was affiliated with the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a known terrorist organization based in Eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The suspect, identified as Aisha Katushabe, also known by aliases Sumaya Byaruhanda and Kabonera, was reportedly riding a motorcycle when intercepted by security personnel approximately 100 meters from the Basilica at around 8:00 a.m on Juine 3, 2025.
According to Col. Chris Magezi, Acting Director of Defence Public Information, the suspect was carrying the explosives in her backpack when it went off killing both herself and the motorcycle rider.
“You know this event involves multitudes of worshippers, it would have been a disaster if it wasn’t the vigilance of the security services,” he added. “If she had infiltrated through, we would be talking about a different story now. But we engaged them and ultimately the explosives she was carrying in the back pack, went off and the ride also died.”
He commended the vigilance and swift action of the security forces, that no civilian lives were lost.
Preliminary intelligence suggests the bomber was previously in custody in October 2023 due to her ties with ADF operatives.
Additional background revealed that her husband, identified as only identified as Muzafaru, was killed in 2021 by counter-terrorism forces following a foiled attack at the funeral of the late Deputy Inspector General of Police, Maj. Gen. Paul Lokech.
Authorities also confirmed that Katushabe was the daughter of one Abdu Shakur, another ADF-linked suicide bomber responsible for the attack at Kampala’s Central Police Station and Parliamentary Avenue, Kampala, in 2021.
Magezi noted that intelligence was aware that the ADF was planning to attack worshippers and pilgrims.
The intelligence followed the arrest of another suspect two days before the gruesome incident.
“Our intelligence services arrested a suspect days ago, who is also in our custody and gave us useful information. We found him with laptops and several rounds of ammunition and interrogations are still taking place,” he added.
Call for vigilance
Following the incident, security across the country has been heightened. All branches of national security, including the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, Uganda Police Force, and other intelligence agencies,have been placed on high alert.
Col. Magezi urged the public to remain calm yet vigilant.
“We appeal to all Ugandans to report any suspicious individuals, activities, or objects to the nearest security agencies. Your vigilance could save lives,” he said.
The foiled attack underscores ongoing threats posed by terrorist networks in the region and highlights the importance of proactive intelligence efforts and community cooperation in counter-terrorism operations.
