New Details Leak On Munyonyo Female Suicide Bomber, Here Is What You Need To Know

On Tuesday, Ugandan security forces successfully stopped a planned suicide bombing aimed at pilgrims visiting Munyonyo for Uganda Martyrs Day. Authorities released a photograph of one of the attackers a woman who was killed during the operation. Officials later confirmed that she was the daughter of a suicide bomber involved in the November 2021 attack at the Kampala Central Police Station.

The woman was reportedly wearing a suicide vest and tried to enter Munyonyo Basilica, a major religious site that hosts thousands of pilgrims each year during the celebrations. Acting on prior intelligence, a counter-terrorism unit from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) intercepted her. When she was shot by the operatives, the suicide vest exploded, killing her instantly.

A second suspect, a man who was with her, was also killed in the operation. The two are believed to have arrived at the scene on a motorcycle, which was destroyed in the blast. The explosion left human remains scattered across the area. Security forces quickly sealed off the site, and forensic teams are now investigating the scene to collect evidence.

Authorities have linked the foiled attack to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a militant group aligned with the Islamic State (ISIS). The ADF was also responsible for the November 2021 suicide bombings in Kampala that targeted the Central Police Station and an area near Parliament Avenue. Those attacks killed and injured several people and were among the deadliest terror incidents in Uganda in recent history.

Speaking to the public on Tuesday, Col. Chris Magezi, Acting Director of Defence Public Information, stated:
“A UPDF counter-terrorism unit this morning intercepted and neutralized two armed terrorists in Munyonyo, an upscale city suburb. It was an intelligence-led operation, and the security services are on heightened alert to ensure the Martyrs Day celebrations proceed without disruption.”

Uganda Martyrs Day is one of the country’s most significant religious events, held annually to remember 45 Christian converts who were executed between 1885 and 1887 for their faith. The event draws millions of pilgrims from across Uganda and beyond.

As investigations continue, security has been tightened across Kampala, particularly around churches and pilgrimage sites. Authorities are working to ensure that the Martyrs Day events continue safely, without any disruption or danger to worshippers and visitors.