As always, the IGP has applauded the police and sister security agencies for effectively providing protective cover to pilgrims trekking on foot, as part of the popular annual religious commemoration of the Uganda Martyrs, to purposely renew their faith. Reports from all our territorial commanders indicate that there were no major incidents registered, apart from a serious accident which occurred at Mairo Mbili, Kamuli round about, along the Jinja – Iganga Highway on the 27.05.2023, around 3:30pm.
It was established that the driver of an Isuzu Forward registration number UBE 168J, identified as Magwa Yusuf, a 24-year-old, resident of Buwekula ward, Bugembe division, in Jinja North division, swerved to the left, while avoiding a taxi, and knocked 4 pilgrims who were heading towards Jinja. The injured include; Nambuya Jennifer, a 49-year-old, Taka Winfred, a female adult, Elebu Fred, aged 22 and Balole John Bosco, all from Bugiri district, who were rushed to Jinja Regional Referral Hospital for medical attention. The driver did not stop. However, the truck was tracked and impounded from a hide-out in Bugembe division and parked at the police station. On the 27.05.2023, one of the victims Bulola John Bosco was discharged. The 3 other victims are also out of danger and recovering well.
We have meanwhile registered pilgrims who arrived safely from the districts of Bwera, Kasese Fortportal, Kyenjojo, Mubende, Bushenyi, Rukungiri, Kanungu, Ntungamo and Isingiro. We continue to escort and protect pilgrims from Nakum and Kakamega parishes from the Republic of Kenya, under the leadership of Fr. Patrick Murunga. They crossed into Uganda on the 25.05.2023 from Malaba border point. So far over 3000 pilgrims have safely arrived at Namugongo and Nakiyanja. The Joint Chief Organizers from Jinja Dioceses, are expected to start their journey on the 29.05.2023.
The primary responsibility of the police and sister security agencies is to ensure the safety of all pilgrims. We continue to provide route and venue security to all pilgrims trekking to Namugongo and Nakiyanja.
SCP Enanga Fred
Police Spokesperson
29th May 2023
