On Friday, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) revealed that the country’s security agencies are closely monitoring the emergence of armed groups across various regions.
The news was shared by Col. Chris Magezi, the acting spokesperson of the UPDF.
He stated that over the past few months, security and intelligence agencies have arrested and interrogated several individuals suspected of fueling armed unrest, plotting to detonate explosives in public places, and sabotaging economic infrastructure, especially by targeting electricity lines in central Uganda.
Districts affected include Wakiso, Mukono, Kayunga, Luweero, Nakaseke, Kiboga, Nakasongola, Mityana, Mubende, Mpigi, and parts of Masaka.
Many of those arrested were previously known as human rights activists linked to the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP). Several have been formally charged and remain in custody awaiting trial.
Uganda has since established a joint task force involving the UPDF, police, prison services, and intelligence agencies. This force is working closely to infiltrate and dismantle militant and oppressive groups, particularly those recruiting youth into rebel activities in and around Kampala.
The UPDF claims there is concrete evidence of local and foreign actors, including European diplomats, actively supporting and financing these plots aimed at disrupting the upcoming presidential elections scheduled for next year.
Among those accused is the German Ambassador to Uganda, Mathias Schauer, alleged to be engaging in illegal and clandestine activities. The UPDF warned that intelligence agencies have been monitoring his actions, which violate the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961).
In a firm stance, the UPDF warned foreign entities against meddling in Uganda’s internal affairs, affirming its readiness to take strict measures against any threat to national security.
