A TikToker who recently posted a video claiming to be a member of the ADF rebels responsible for the attack on Rubiriha Secondary School in Kasese has been arrested and is now facing charges related to terrorism. The individual, identified as 25-year-old Resto Kalenzi, worked as a shop attendant and was apprehended by operatives from the Directorate of Crime Intelligence in Lugazi.
According to Fred Enanga, the spokesperson for the police, Kalenzi not only falsely identified himself as an ADF member but also recorded a video in which he praised and glorified the attack on innocent children and civilians.
"He didn't end at calling himself a member of ADF, but he also recorded himself praising and glorifying the attack on innocent children and civilians. We are charging him for promoting and glorifying terrorism," Enanga stated.
The attack on Rubiriha Secondary School, which occurred on June 16, has been attributed to the ADF rebel group. In March 2021, the United States Department of State designated the ADF as a foreign terrorist organization. The ADF has previously pledged allegiance to the Islamic State as its Central Africa Province.
In his TikTok video, Kalenzi falsely claimed to be part of the ADF and boasted about their actions during the attack on the Kasese school. He claimed that they had killed "70 people even though you are announcing the wrong numbers." Additionally, he alleged involvement in the twin blasts that occurred in Kampala at CPS and Parliamentary Avenue in November 2021, further asserting that they were planning more attacks.
Speaking about the case on Monday, police spokesperson Fred Enanga stated that the file has been sent to the state attorney, and Kalenzi is expected to appear in court soon. Enanga emphasized the seriousness of promoting acts of terrorism.
"A terror act can't happen, and you start going on airwaves glorifying it. It is one way of promoting terrorism because you are showing support and encouraging them to carry out similar attacks." he stated.
As authorities take action against Kalenzi, it is hoped that this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible behavior on social media platforms and the severe consequences that can arise from spreading false information or promoting acts of violence.
