Security heightened at Namugongo ahead of Martyrs Day

The police spokesperson, Fred Enanga has said joint security task teams have been deployed at all venues in Namugongo where pilgrims expected to gather for Martyrs Day celebrations on Friday, June 3.

This year’s celebrations are expected to attract thousands of pilgrims who will gather at four different sites in Namugongo including; Namugongo Catholic Martyrs Shrine, Namugongo Anglican Martyrs Shrine, Namugongo and Mamra Prayer Centre.

In addition, the pilgrims at the Muslim Shrine in Namugongo are also expected to gather in large numbers.

On Monday, Enanga assured members of public that there are no credible or specific threats, directed towards the Uganda Martyrs celebrations in Namugongo despite a threat environment still existing in the country.

“Our Joint Security Task Teams are camped at all the 4 venues and continue to review our level of preparedness and assessments of threats and vulnerabilities towards the popular religious celebrations,” Enanga said.

He added that, as police, they have worked on intelligence and analysis, profiled all venues, hotels and hotspots in the area, to help identify potential risks and taken steps, on how to address them.

He also said they have standby teams, mobile squads, advance teams, 999 patrols, motorcycle squads as part of the multi-layered security posture adding that they are using CCTV cameras to monitor the pilgrims’ security.

“In addition, our cyber and ICT teams are using CCTV cameras, to effectively monitor the conduct and movement of pilgrims at the shrines and the routes they will use. The joint UPF and UPDF air wing will conduct aerial surveillance.”

Furthermore, the police mouthpiece urged all the pilgrims and all those participating in the celebrations to remain vigilant and focused while at any of the venues.

He further advised them to carry their IDs or other identification documents.

“Keep an eye on your personal belongings, wallet, mobile phones, and other objects of value; avoid leaving elders or children alone, be wary of strangers, ensure your mobile phone is fully charged, let the family and friends know where you are.”

Enanga also encouraged the pilgrims to be aware of their physical health and condition and avoid taking risks by subjecting themselves to perseverance, hunger, thirst, standing for long, over congesting and other risky practices.