At least 40 people have been arrested for allegedly engaging in criminal activities during the annual Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations at Namugongo.
According to ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, the Deputy Spokesperson for Kampala Metropolitan Police, the suspects were apprehended in connection with various theft-related incidents that marred the event attended by thousands of pilgrims from across the country and beyond.
“We have arranged 40 suspects who have been engaging themselves in theft-related activities. We have confiscated phones from them which appear to have been stolen from pilgrims,” Owoyesigyire said.
Among the items reported lost were bags, mobile phones, land titles, cash, and other personal belongings.
However, Owoyesigyire said that more than 20 stolen mobile phones were recovered and urged victims to come forward to claim their belongings.
Among the suspects is an individual who was reportedly intending to sexually assault a pilgrim at the water site.
“One suspect was reportedly intending to rape a pilgrim at the water site. We arrested him,” Owoyesigyire stated.
All 40 suspects are currently being detained at Kira Police Division as investigations continue.
Despite the arrests, this year’s Martyrs Day celebrations were largely peaceful, with security agencies praised for maintaining order and ensuring the safety of pilgrims. Unlike previous years, few security-related complaints were registered.
Many pilgrims expressed gratitude toward security personnel, commending them for their professionalism and humane treatment throughout the event.
Martyrs Day, celebrated annually on June 3rd, commemorates the execution of 45 young Christian converts between 1885 and 1887 by Kabaka Mwanga of Buganda, and continues to draw multitudes of faithful to Namugongo for pilgrimage and prayer.
