Police tightens security ahead of Martyrs Day celebrations

According to Patrick Onyango, a spokesman for the Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP), cameras and bulky outerwear are prohibited on the grounds of both the Catholic and Anglican churches.

The prohibition, according to Onyango, is intended to ensure safe celebrations.

He said that journalists would be allowed to enter with their cameras, but only after they have been vetted and cleared by security, and that neither tourists nor ordinary citizens will be permitted to enter with cameras or bulky jackets.

Onyango added that some terrorists often carry harmful items in heavy coats with many pockets. As a result, counterterrorism officers have been stationed at the entrance to make sure that those wearing heavy jackets do not enter the building.

In anticipation of D-Day, thousands of pilgrims who began visiting both sites two weeks ago have set up camp inside with their mats and blankets.

On Thursday, May 31, 2023, more pilgrims flocked to Namugongo, including around 6,000 from the Jinja diocese, which is sponsoring the pilgrimage this year.

To make sure that all pilgrims who enter the sites are inspected by security officers, the police have set up many checkpoints.

Onyango said that visitors are not permitted to enter the grounds while carrying sharp objects. He said that for safety reasons, items like knives, forks, mirrors, lighters, and matchboxes are not permitted inside.

Vaseline and bottled water are some additional items that have been prohibited because they could be used to hurt pilgrims or turn out to be harmful chemicals.