48 Suspects arrested by joint security teams following Terror attacks

The Security Agencies from the Joint Anti-Terrorism Unit, the Joint Intelligence Components of CMI, CI and ISO, CID, have arrested 48 suspects in operations, following the tragic incident of terrorism that occurred on 23.10.2021, in which Nyinaneza Emily, lost her life and 4 others sustained critical injuries.

Police spokesperson Fred Enanga says security operatives conducted intelligence-led operations, that led to the arrest of the 48 suspects highly linked to the acts of terror in the country. 

The suspects involve single individuals, those operating in small cells that have been broken, and others on various activities of terrorism.

“The public should know that the threats of terrorism, especially on soft targets, are still in existence.  And as we continue to expand our intelligence-led operations, to ensure all Ugandans and visitors are protected.  We call upon the public to be extra alert against the threats of terrorism, which come amidst the threat of COVID-19. And while these arrests present a positive step, there is still work to be done to identify all persons responsible” Enanga said.

He added that during the last week, the public response was impressive, seeing Ugandans and visitors come out to strongly condemn the attackers and show solidarity in the fight against terrorism. The security task teams responded to several disturbance calls, of an abandoned bag allegedly containing a bomb at Katabi playground. 

“On the 31.10.2021, at around 6:30 pm, a team from the Aviation bomb squad responded, and found it was a bag with clothes. We also responded to a suspected bomb abandoned near Nsambya Sharing Hall, which was established to be a tear gas canister, that was taken over by the FFU. We further responded to an abandoned numberless motor vehicle, along Gaba road, next to the US Embassy, which we established as that of Mwongyera Andrew, staff from the Embassy. In addition, we responded to a concern at Akamwesi, along Gayaza road, where we recovered a green polythene bag, that contained rubbish” he noted.

The police mouthpiece says the threats and attacks are occurring as the economy is heading towards its full opening in January 2022. Their focus is on soft targets which are many and difficult to defend, especially restaurants, public transportation, shopping centers and markets, pedestrians, religious places, etc. 

He, therefore, appealed for business owners and the public at large to support the security agencies, in keeping the country safe, by remaining vigilant and reporting anything that does not seem right to security or any other authority.

“We urge them to review and update their security plans and properly risk assess all their indoor and outdoor spaces. The best defense against any terrorist threats is a collective community effort where security agencies and the public come together to minimize the chance of an attack and that is why we have launched the massive sensitization and awareness campaigns on vigilance.”