The Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) has provided details about the identity and background of the suicide bomber who attempted to attack Munyonyo Martyrs Shrine as the country commemorated Martyrs Day.
Two people died in a bomb blast near St. Andrew Church at the Munyonyo Martyrs Shrine. The incident happened today around 8:30 p.m. The alleged bombers—a male and a female—were riding on a motorcycle, and the bomb went off as they approached the bridge.
While addressing journalists at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Mbuya, Col. Chris Magezi, the acting Defence Public Information Officer, said the suspect was identified as Aisha Katushabe, also known by the aliases Byaruhanga Sumayya and Kabonesa. Col. Magezi said that their preliminary investigations point to the involvement of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a known terrorist organisation operating in the region. He further stated that the female bomber had previously been arrested in 2023 over terrorism-related suspicions but was released due to lack of evidence.
Magezi further revealed that Katushabe was the wife of the late Muzafar, who was killed in 2021 while attempting to attack mourners at the home of the late Lt. Gen. Paul Lokech.
Her father, Abdul Shakur, also blew himself up during the Central Police Station (CPS) bombing in Kampala in 2021.
Magezi said that the operation which led to the suspects’ bomb going off before reaching their intended destination was intelligence-led, as they had arrested one person two days prior who provided crucial information. He said investigations are ongoing to identify the man who was riding the motorcycle.
Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Abbas Byakagaba, also visited the scene of the incident. The IGP said the situation was under control and that no injuries were registered apart from the two who were carrying the bomb.
He urged the public to remain calm but vigilant and to be conscious of their surroundings. The remains of the two individuals were taken to Mulago mortuary, while the wreckage of the destroyed motorcycle was taken to Central Police Station.
