Over 7,000 security personnel deployed for Martyrs Day

At least 7,000 personnel from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and Uganda Police Force (UPF) have been deployed to provide both covert and overt security during this year’s Martyrs Day celebrations at Namugongo.

The annual pilgrimage, slated for Tuesday, June 3, attracts tens of thousands of faithful from across the country and beyond, commemorating the 45 Christian converts killed for their faith between 1885 and 1887.

To ensure a hitch-free event, the joint security operations committee has held a series of meetings ahead of the celebrations. On Friday, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Frank Mwesigwa, director of police operations services, inspected the Catholic and Anglican shrines to assess the state of preparedness.

Speaking after the inspection, Mwesigwa said the visit was to ensure that deployment plans were being implemented as designed.

“I have inspected the security preparations at the two shrines, and I commend security officers for their efforts in ensuring pilgrims’ safety. We have deployed over 7,000 overt and covert security operatives to secure the event,” he said.

Frank Mwesigwa addressing security officers at Namugongo

During a coordination meeting held at the site, commanders from various units including the Special Forces Command (SFC), Counter-Terrorism (CT), Field Force Unit (FFU), Regional Police Commanders (RPCs), and Division Police Commanders (DPCs), pledged to work as a single force to guarantee the safety of all attendees.

“Standby teams, mobile squads, and medical teams have equally been deployed to provide immediate medical attention as and when the need may arise. We urge the pilgrims to come and are assured of their safety,” Mwesigwa added.

Meanwhile, Mwesigwa and minister of Health Dr Jane Ruth Aceng held an inter-agency meeting to harmonise security and health emergency plans. Aceng assured the public that her ministry was well-prepared for any medical contingencies.

“We have a first aid team. Whatever challenges come in the way, we are ready to handle it. We have planned for this event and we are sure it will go on well,” she said.

Dr Aceng also confirmed that Joint Medical Stores (JMS) has provided additional medical support for both shrines.