A mosque was raided in a joint operation by different security agencies on Friday evening and 2 suspects were killed. From a distance, one can tell that there was a violent exchange in the area due to the dismantled iron sheet fence and the visible damage to the building. Clothes, shoes and other household items were thrown all over the place indicating that there was a struggle. By morning, Police had cordoned off the area as they continued to gather evidence but the bullet shells and used teargas canisters were still visible. Eyewitnesses said the raid could have started at around 8 pm on Friday night and ended early on Saturday morning. Some described what happened as a terrifying moment. “The gunshots went up to around 3:30 am.” They said they had been seeing what was happening at the mosque and some had even complained to the authorities but nothing had been done. “They have been exposing people to violent movies. What was the motive?” “They could even look at fellow Muslims as performing the prayer in a wrong manner.”
Later on Friday afternoon, different security agencies involved in the operation held a joint press conference led by the Minister of Internal Affairs Gen. Jeje Odong, UPDF Spokesperson Brig. Richard Keremire, Police Spokesperson Emilian Kayima and the Director of Anti-Terrorism in Police Abbas Byakagaba. According to Abbas Byakagaba, the security operatives had been tracking a suspect in the murder of Suzan Magara who had sought refuge in the mosque. “There was a key suspect being followed up and in the process of following up this suspect went to Usafi Mosque. By that time, we were all following up that key suspect.” Said, Abbas Byakagaba – Director, Anti-Terrorism – Uganda Police. Police Spokesperson Emilian Kayima confirmed that during the night attack, two people were shot dead after they had tried to attack the security officers. “Two of the hostage-takers were shot dead after violently and smeary injuring one of the security officers,” Said, Emilian Kayima – Spokesperson, Uganda Police Force.
The Police said they rescued 112 people who had been held hostage in a place which appeared to be a school within the mosque's premises. “That is why we have informed you that we have chosen to take custody of these children, look after them and see how we can identify their parentage and reconnect them.” Said, Gen. Jeje Odongo – Minister of Internal Affairs. The security authorities said they were holding 36 people who were arrested during the operation. “The 36 suspects listed they are under Police custody. And we will soon record statements for prosecution purposes.” Said, Emilian Kayima – Spokesperson, Uganda Police Force. There are still some suspects who evaded arrest and are now on the run. However, it is not clear the exact nature of charges that are going to be brought against those who were arrested.
