news 12 October 2026 Nile Post
Ex-ADF Informer Accuses Lt Col Byaruhanga of Staging Bomb Plots
A former ADF operative turned security informant, Hamza Lyavala, testified that Lt Col Ephraim Byaruhanga orchestrated fake bomb attacks at Munyonyo and Kalerwe markets to boost his professional standing. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/377503/lt-col-byaruhanga-asked-us-to-plan-and-execute-fake-bomb-plots-at-munyonyo-and-kalerwe-witnesstells-army-court
Hamza Lyavala, a former member of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) and now a security informant, has provided testimony to the General Court Martial alleging that Lt Col Ephraim Byaruhanga, formerly of the Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS), masterminded two simulated bomb attacks in Kampala during 2025. Lyavala claims he and a colleague, Hadil Walusansa, were recruited by Byaruhanga to plan and execute these operations.
The witness stated that Byaruhanga’s alleged motive was to gain attention from his superiors and highlight his intelligence work, as he was reportedly dissatisfied with his current position and lack of recognition. Byaruhanga has denied these charges, and Lyavala and Walusansa have already pleaded guilty to their roles in the incidents and were convicted of murder on October 5.
Lyavala’s testimony detailed his journey from the ADF, including his defection and subsequent pardon by President Museveni. He explained how he became a state informer, reporting to various intelligence leaders, eventually being assigned to Byaruhanga. He recounted Byaruhanga’s alleged complaints about being ignored by senior officers, which led to the proposal of staging attacks.
Details emerged of specific alleged plots, including one at Munyonyo Martyrs Basilica planned for Martyrs Day celebrations in 2025. Lyavala described how materials for improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were delivered and how a woman, Summaya Byaruhanga, was allegedly involved in a suicide mission. He also testified about a second planned operation at Kalerwe Market, which resulted in the death of another woman, Azatu Sawuya, allegedly on Byaruhanga’s orders.
The testimony suggests that the operations were designed to appear as genuine terrorist threats, with security agencies involved in the staged events to create a narrative of success for Byaruhanga. The prosecution has characterized these incidents as staged operations, and Byaruhanga continues to deny all charges against him.
Source: Nile Post