Uganda Police has banned pilgrims from trekking during late night hours in their quest to protect travelers from danger ahead of the Uganda Martyrs celebrations.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Martin Ochola has directed regional, district, and division police commanders to prevent pilgrims from walking during the late night hours to avoid potential dangers.
This follows a police report indicating that pilgrims are traveling to Namugongo from all walks of life including Kanungu, Kasese, Lira, and Gulu, among other districts. Countries trekking include DRC, Kenya, South Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania.
A tragedy like one that occurred in 2019, where four Kenyan pilgrims lost their lives when a speeding taxi driver lost control and collided with them in Bugodi village along the Iganga-Jinja highway is what police is trying to prevent.
On June 3rd of every year, people travel to the Catholic and Anglican shrines in Namugongo as part of a pilgrimage to honor the courage of the Uganda Martyrs, who gave their lives in defense of their faith.
