Pilgrims: Police Commanders ordered to Ensure Safety

Ahead of the upcoming Martyrs Day celebrations on June 3^rd, Inspector General of Police John Martins Okoth Ochola has issued a directive to police commanders to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims making their way to Namugongo martyrs shrine.

This announcement was made by Police spokesperson Fred Enanga during a press briefing held at the police headquarters in Naguru.

Enanga emphasized that pilgrims from various parts of the country, as well as neighboring countries such as Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo, have already commenced their journey to Namugongo.

Police commanders across the nation have thus  been instructed to prioritize the security and well-being of these pilgrims.

The commanders have been specifically tasked with ensuring the safety of the pilgrims while they travel on the roads, as well as when they seek shelter in churches and schools overnight.

To prevent  potential risks, pilgrims have been advised against traveling during late night hours and the early morning, as this is when they are more vulnerable  to accidents caused by fast-moving vehicles or targeted by criminals.

Enanga appealed to the pilgrims to adhere to the provided guidelines, particularly when entering busy towns and cities like Kampala.

The pilgrims  are encouraged to travel with lightweight luggage and arrange for transportation back to their respective home districts following the conclusion  of the Martyrs Day celebrations.

The police's cautionary statement comes in response to previous incidents where pilgrims have fallen victim to attacks by criminals, been involved in road accidents, or encountered difficulties in finding transport after the conclusion of the Martyrs Day festivities at Namugongo.

Jinja Catholic Diocese is organizing  and hosting this year's Martyrs Day celebrations.