In a tense security operation on Martyrs Day, a significant Christian holy day, Ugandan forces intercepted and neutralized two individuals described as “armed terrorists” in the upscale Munyonyo suburb of the capital. The incident occurred near the Roman Catholic Munyonyo Martyrs' Shrine, where worshippers had gathered to commemorate the faithful who died for their beliefs in the 19th century.  

According to army spokesperson Colonel Chris Magezi, one of the individuals was a female suicide bomber carrying powerful explosives. The two were reportedly approaching the shrine on a motorcycle when they were intercepted by a counter-terrorism unit. An eyewitness told Uganda’s *Daily Monitor* that an explosion occurred during the confrontation, though authorities have not officially confirmed the blast.  

Colonel Magezi, in a statement posted on X, emphasized that the authorities remain on “heightened alert” following the incident. He also revealed that the two individuals are believed to be linked to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a militant group affiliated with the Islamic State (IS). The ADF has yet to comment on the allegations.  

Footage from Uganda’s NBS Television showed security and forensic teams at the scene, which had been cordoned off for investigation. Despite the tense situation, there were no reports of additional casualties, according to Reuters.  

The ADF has long been a source of instability in Uganda, with the army warning last year that the group was planning attacks on places of worship, public events, schools, and urban areas. In 2023, the ADF was accused of carrying out a brutal attack on a Ugandan school, resulting in the deaths of nearly 40 students.  

Martyrs Day, one of the largest Christian pilgrimages in Africa, draws millions of believers annually to honor 45 individuals—22 Catholics and 23 Anglicans—who were executed between 1885 and 1887 on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II of Buganda. The martyrs were killed for refusing to renounce their Christian faith and revert to traditional religion, with many burned to death for their defiance.  

This year’s celebrations, while marked by this security incident, continued with thousands of pilgrims paying homage to the martyrs’ legacy of faith and resilience. Authorities have assured the public that measures are in place to ensure safety during the ongoing commemorations.