Security Forces Crack Down on ‘Emerging Rebel Cells’ Ahead of 2026 Elections

Uganda’s security and intelligence agencies have ramped up operations against emerging rebel cells suspected of planning violent attacks, economic sabotage, and subversion, particularly in central Uganda. This comes as authorities allege foreign interference, specifically naming the German Ambassador, H.E. Mathias Schauer, in activities they say are hostile to Uganda’s internal stability according a statement by Uganda’s army spokesperson, Chris Magezi.

Over recent months, several suspects with alleged ties to armed rebellion, terror plots targeting public spaces, and vandalism of key electricity infrastructure have been arrested and interrogated. Affected districts include Wakiso, Mukono, Kayunga, Luweero, Nakaseke, Kiboga, Nakasongola, Mityana, Mubende, Mpigi, and the greater Masaka region.

Authorities say many of those arrested previously posed as opposition political party activists, particularly from the National Unity Platform (NUP). Several suspects have since been charged in courts of law and remanded pending further hearings.

The Inter-Agency Security Committee, chaired by the Chief of Defence Forces, and comprising the Uganda Police, Prisons Service, and Intelligence Agencies, has intensified efforts to dismantle subversive cells operating especially within greater Kampala’s urban ghetto communities. These groups are reportedly targeting vulnerable youths with promises of political change through violent means.

In its latest meeting, the Committee resolved to take firm action against ring leaders and financiers allegedly attempting to disrupt the forthcoming general elections.

The government has pointed to evidence linking funding and coordination of some rebel activities to foreign missions in Kampala, with the German envoy singled out for what officials describe as “undiplomatic practices” in violation of the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.

“The intelligence services are aware of the illegal and clandestine activities of the German Ambassador that go against the spirit of cordial diplomatic relations,” said Colonel Chris Magezi, Acting Director of Defence Public Information. “The government is engaging the concerned foreign mission through the appropriate diplomatic channels.”

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces and its inter-agency partners have condemned any form of foreign interference in Uganda’s internal affairs and have vowed to take decisive action against all destabilising forces.

Ugandan youths have been urged to resist manipulation by external political actors and instead take advantage of government-led wealth creation and empowerment initiatives.

“Traitors and agents of foreign manipulation will be identified, isolated, and dealt with in accordance with the law,” Colonel Magezi said.