UPDF Warns of Terror Attacks Planned from Eastern DRC via WhatsApp, Telegram
KAMPALA — The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has alerted Parliament that terrorists are planning attacks on Uganda from bases in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, coordinating their activities through encrypted messaging platforms including WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal.
Briefing the Parliamentary Committee, a UPDF official identified as Otto said both the Islamic State’s central Afghan province branch and Al Shabab continue to plot and conduct attacks inside Uganda with support from a network of regional collaborators.
“The group coordinates its activities using online and encrypted platforms including WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal among others,” Otto explained.
According to the UPDF, counter-terrorism forces are carrying out ongoing disruptive operations to detect and prevent terror activities across the country. Since January 2026, more than 30 suspects linked to ADF activities have been arrested and are currently going through the justice system.
The revelations highlight growing concern over the use of encrypted communication tools by militant groups operating in the region.
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