Police investigate armed man at Bobi Wine rally as terror threats loom

Kampala – Police in Uganda have launched an investigation to identify a man seen brandishing a pistol amid large crowds attending an opposition rally led by Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine.

The incident occurred on August 28th during Bobi Wine’s country-wide campaign tour in Mbarara District. Trending images on social media showed an unidentified man seated in a car freely holding the weapon.

Police spokesperson Fred Enanga said they have obtained images of the armed man and intelligence agencies are working to establish his identity and how he came to possess the firearm. “The investigations will tell us whether the person is part of NUP party or is an outsider,” Enanga stated.

The presence of the armed individual at the political gathering sparked public alarm over safety and security at Bobi Wine’s rallies, which have drawn massive crowds in the past. Enanga warned that possessing firearms amid large processions or rallies poses a serious danger.

The police comments come as security agencies issue fresh terror threats advising vigilance. Enanga cautioned opposition politicians touring the country of vulnerabilities, citing intelligence indicating mobilization activities have been conducted amid existing threats.

Enanga urged political parties to work closely with security and conduct meetings in controlled settings rather than congested roadside rallies. The police seek to guarantee safety and have urged the NUP leadership to work with local security committees on thorough security planning going forward.

The armed incident is being investigated just a week after police recovered unexploded bombs in Kampala suburbs, underscoring the volatility of the current climate. Bobi Wine’s campaign tour aims to build grassroots support ahead of the 2026 elections as he continues efforts to unseat long-term President Museveni.