On the morning of June 3, 2025, Uganda’s security forces intercepted a suspected female suicide bomber near the Munyonyo Martyrs Shrine in Kampala, averting a potential terrorist attack during the country’s largest religious gathering.
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) reported that the suspect, identified as Aisha Katushabe, also known as Sumayiyah Byaruhanga or Kabonesa, was linked to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a rebel group affiliated with the Islamic State.
According to Col. Chris Magezi, acting Director of Defence Public Information, Katushabe was previously arrested in October 2023 over alleged ties to the ADF but was released due to insufficient evidence.
He stated, “We didn’t have sufficient evidence. This should show you that Uganda’s security and justice systems try to be fair. But today we’ve been vindicated—she was a terrorist.”
The explosion occurred around 8:30 a.m. when UPDF forces engaged the suspect approximately 600 meters from the shrine. The detonation resulted in the deaths of Katushabe and the motorcycle rider transporting her. No civilian casualties were reported.
Katushabe’s background reveals deep ties to terrorist activities; she was the daughter of Abdul Shakur, a suicide bomber who attacked Kampala Central Police Station in 2021, and the widow of Muzafalu, another ADF suspect killed by counterterrorism forces the same year.
The attempted attack underscores the persistent threat posed by the ADF, which has been responsible for several attacks in Uganda, including the 2021 bombings in Kampala.
Security forces remain on high alert, urging the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
Despite the incident, the Martyrs’ Day celebrations at Namugongo proceeded without disruption, attended by President Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni.
The UPDF’s swift action prevented what could have been a devastating attack on the faithful gathered to honor Uganda’s martyrs.
