In a combined operation between the UPDF and police in Nabweru North, Nansana Division, Nansana Municipality, and Wakiso District, at least six people have been detained after they were allegedly found in possession of improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Speaking to reporters at the scene of the crime in Nabweru, Major Charles Kabona of the UPDF’s 1st Division explains that two additional suspects were taken into custody shortly after.
“Our personnel arrived at this location (Nabweru) last night after receiving information from our technical and human intelligence services, and they were able to make four arrests. These individuals own equipment used in creating improvised explosive devices (IEDs). In nations like Somalia, the DRC, and most recently Uganda, when they tried to hide us, IEDs were primarily used as negative elements.”
According to Major Kabona, the armed forces had already surrounded the area by Monday morning as they searched for more suspects.
“We’ll discover who their collaborators are. We urge everyone to be especially watchful and aware. Unexpectedly, none of their neighbours were aware that these individuals are felons. We are under threat, so we must cooperate closely to prevent further illegal activity. We won’t let anyone destabilise our nation,” Major Kabona continued.
The suspects were named as Hamidu Ssekidde, Muhammad Kalyango, Abdul Katamba, Arafat Ssali, Emmanuel Asiimwe, and Hamidu Muyondi by Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesperson, ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, who also spoke to journalists at the site.
According to authorities, the explosives would be used in the city’s centre to wreak havoc.
Twelve wine bottles, binder nails, sugar, charcoal dust, jerrycans of petrol, matchboxes, blasting cups, dynamite and candlewicks are just a few of the recovered items.
Brig. Felix Kulayigye, the spokesperson for the Defense, tweeted on Monday morning. “Explosives were also discovered in Nabweru while travelling to Kazo. People who intended to paint the city blood red today were going to use them. The press should visit and observe firsthand.”
In the meantime, the army and police have increased security deployments in Kampala city and the surrounding areas to disrupt planned rallies by a segment of Ugandans.