Ugandan security forces found explosives in the country's capital Kampala which they say were to be used in anti-government protests today, spokesman for the Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) Brig. Gen. Felix Kulayigye has said.
The explosives were reportedly discovered in Nabweru subcounty on the road to Kazo in central Wakiso district.
"These were to be used today in the city by those planning to paint it red,” Kulayigye said on Twitter.
A total of six people have been arrested in an ongoing joint operation between the UPDF and police in Wakiso, four initially and two later on, Uganda's defence forces reported.
"After getting our technical and human intelligence information last night, our forces came to this place [Nabweru] and managed to arrest four people. These people are having gadgets that make Improvised Explosive Devices," Major Charles Kabona, UPDF's 1st Division spokesperson told media.
The major expressed confidence that it would be possible to find others who seek to destabilize the country.
"We will find out their collaborators. We call upon the general public to be extra vigilant and alert. Surprisingly, none of their neighbors knew that these people are criminals. We have a threat amidst us and therefore, we must work very closely to ensure that we curb such criminality. We shall not allow anybody to distablize our country," Kabona added.
In the city of Kampala and surrounding areas, increased security forces have been deployed to prevent planned protests, according to the local media.
Protests have also been going on in neighboring Kenya, with members of Raila Odinga's coalition Azimio la Umoja (United Kenya) holding demonstrations since March. Those on the streets argue they are protesting the high costs of food, fuel and electricity in the country, as well as the results of last year's election that resulted in William Ruto becoming president, which the opposition considers "fraudulent."
Ruto has denounced the opposition protests, which descended into riots and led to property damage, forcing a number of businesses to close, saying that he would not allow "impunity to be part of" the country’s discourse.
The African Union has also called on protesters in Kenya for calm and dialogue "to address any differences" and added that last year’s elections were successful and their results were confirmed by the Supreme Court.