(LifeSiteNews) – An attempted terrorist attack at the Ugandan Martyrs’ Shrine in Kampala failed today.

According to the Ugandan Army, two armed terrorists approached the pilgrimage site in Munyunyo, Kampala, this morning, June 3, but were killed by anti-terrorist personnel 500 meters from the church. Huge crowds were expected at the Shrine, as today is the Feast of the Ugandan Martyrs.

 “This morning, a UPDF [Uganda People’s Defence Forces] counter-terrorism unit intercepted and neutralized two armed terrorists in Munyonyo, an upscale city suburb,” a military spokesperson informed media. “It was an intelligence-led operation, and the security services are on heightened alert to ensure the Martyrs Day celebrations proceed without disruption.”

According to Agenzia Fides, an official news source of the Pontifical Mission Societies, the terrorists were would-be suicide bombers wearing “explosive vests.”

“Our specialized counter terrorism combat unit opened fire at the terrorists, sparking an explosion that killed them,” a military source stated.

In the aftermath, security forces found the remains of the attackers and a motorcycle.

Agenzia Fides reported that “Police Inspector General Abbas Byakagaba urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities by reporting any suspicious person, object, or activity.”

Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims are expected to arrive at the Shrine throughout the day. Last year almost 690,000 pilgrims took part in Martyrs Day celebrations.

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