The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Martin Okoth Ochola has applauded the Police and Sister Security Agencies for providing protective coverage to pilgrims trekking on foot to Namugongo Martyrs Shrine, as part of the religious tradition, to renew their faith while commemorating the Uganda Martyrs.
Several pilgrims from the districts of Kasese, Kabale, Hoima, Masaka, Mityana, Luweero, Lugazi, Lira, Nebbi, Arua, Kitgum, Tororo were safely escorted, and guarded in the course of their journey.
According to Police Spokesperson, CP Fred Enanga, security was provided to foreign pilgrims who crossed into the country through the border points of Mutukula, Chanika, Bunagana, Katuna, Kitagata, Mirami Hills, Busia, Malaba, Mpandwe, Vura, Goli and Elegu.
He revealed that so far over 10,000 pilgrims have safely arrived at Namugongo including 9 from the USA.
The Chief organizers at Fort Portal Diocese and other pilgrims from Rwenzori Archdiocese, who started their journey on the May 25, were expected to arrive at Namugongo on Monday night. These comprise of about 2000 pilgrims.
Meanwhile, Enanga conveyed police’s condolences to the family of two pilgrims that have died coming to Namugongo.
Among them is; Tukahirwa Jovita, a 53-year-old female pilgrim who was knocked on May 21 at around 3:30pm at Akegeto village along the Mbarara-Masaka Highway by a one Muhanguzi Paddy, who was driving a Toyota Harrier registration number UBH168F.
He noted that the victim was rushed to Dr. Kiiza’s Clinic in Lyantonde where she passed on.
The second death was of another pilgrim from Rubirizi, identified as Jackline Arinaitwe, 48.
She died moments after her arrival at Nakiyanja Anglican Shrine in Namugongo.
He revealed that the joint security forces, will continue to provide route and venue security to all pilgrims trekking to Namugongo.