Phone theft tops crime list at Namugongo Martyrs venues

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Beware, thieves, especially phone snatchers, are on the prowl at the Uganda Martyrs' Catholic shrine and Anglican site at Namugongo in Wakiso district, New Vision Online has learnt.

Police say it has registered 80 cases of criminality, most of which are of phones in the run-up to Uganda Martyrs' Day tomorrow, June 3, 2025.

“Most of the cases we’ve recorded involve the stealing of phones,” Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) James Ocaya says.

Ocaya has, however, assured the public of heightened security ahead of the Martyrs’ Day celebrations, noting that no major concerns have been detected so far. 

During his tour on Monday, June 2, 2025, Ocaya commended pilgrims for largely adhering to security guidelines, aided by the heavy Police deployment at both the Catholic and Anglican shrines in Namugongo, Wakiso district.

“We are providing adequate security. We only appeal to the public to remain vigilant and take care of themselves and their personal property—they should be watchful,” Ocaya said.

Addressing the surging number of pilgrims, Ocaya noted that the force is fully prepared to manage the crowds.

As of Monday, the Catholic shrine had received approximately 500,000 pilgrims, while the Anglican shrine had drawn around 120,000, according to Ocaya, who also revealed that the numbers are expected to triple by the close of business (Monday)  and encouraged more faithful to make the journey and renew their faith.

To address incidents of lost children, Ocaya said they have also set up a special tent under the Child and Family Protection Unit to help trace their parents.