UK Issues travel advisory over terror threat in Uganda

KAMPALA, Uganda

The United Kingdom has said that there is a likely terrorist attack in Uganda, urging its nationals to be vigilant.

In a travel advisory, the UK said that there is a likelihood of increased security checks in public places and hotels as security will be heightened in the nation.

Nationals have been urged to be on the lookout as they maneuver through public places and government buildings since terrorists tend to target areas that attract huge gatherings.

"Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Uganda. Attacks could be indiscriminate or against foreign nationals or places frequented by foreign nationals," read part of the advisory.

"You should be vigilant at all times, especially in crowded areas and public places like hotels, transport hubs, restaurants and bars, and during major gatherings like sporting or religious events and when in close proximity to Government buildings or security installations such as police stations."

The UK further stated that there is a high threat of terrorist attacks globally affecting UK interests and its nationals, "including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets."

Previous terrorist attacks in Uganda, the advisory added, have targeted the security forces, places where football matches were being viewed, restaurants, buses and government buildings.

Some of the recent attacks that were also listed including:

June 17, 2023 - the Ugandan police attributed to militants (the Allied Democratic Forces – ADF) an attack on a school in Mpondwe, Kasese District, western Uganda, close to the border with the DRC. 42 people were killed.

November 16, 2021 - terrorists used two explosive devices in central Kampala killing 4 and injuring 33 people. Two further explosive devices were disarmed by the police.

October 25, 2021 - terrorists used an explosive device on a coach travelling on the Kampala to Masaka road near Mpigi killing one person.

October 23, 2021 - terrorists used an explosive device to attack a restaurant in Kamamboga, a suburb in the north east of Kampala killing one person and injuring a number of others.