At least 96 people were arrested for allegedly engaging in various criminal activities during the annual Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations held on Tuesday at Namugongo.
According to SP Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Spokesperson for Kampala Metropolitan Police, the suspects were apprehended over a range of theft-related incidents that disrupted the event, which attracts thousands of pilgrims from Uganda and beyond.
“We have arranged 96 suspects who have been engaging themselves in theft-related activities. We have confiscated phones from them which appear to have been stolen from pilgrims,” SP Owoyesigyire said.
Among the stolen items reported were bags, mobile phones, land titles, cash, and other personal belongings.
The police said they recovered more than 20 stolen mobile phones and encouraged victims to come forward to identify and reclaim their property.
“One suspect was reportedly intending to rape a pilgrim at the water site. We arrested him,” Owoyesigyire added, revealing a particularly disturbing incident that unfolded during the pilgrimage.
Initially, police had confirmed the arrest of 40 suspects, but the number later rose to 96 as more individuals were rounded up by security personnel.
Owoyesigyire noted that detectives are currently reviewing each case to determine which suspects should be released on bond, let go unconditionally, or forwarded to the resident state attorney for prosecution.
“We are sorting them out to see which one should be released on bond or unconditionally and which ones should be referred to state Attorney resident,” he said.
Despite the arrests, the celebrations were largely peaceful. Security forces were commended for their efforts in maintaining order and protecting the pilgrims.
Many participants expressed appreciation for the professionalism and humane approach demonstrated by the security agencies, noting a significant improvement compared to previous years.
Uganda Martyrs Day, marked every June 3rd, honors the memory of 45 young Christian converts who were executed between 1885 and 1887 by Kabaka Mwanga of Buganda.
The event continues to attract massive crowds to Namugongo for prayer and pilgrimage.
