At least 7,000 personnel from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and Uganda Police Force (UPF) have been deployed to provide covert and overt security before, during, and after the Martyrs’ Day celebrations on June 3.
The Joint Operations Committee (JOC) has held a series of meetings to ensure the event proceeds without security hitches. On Friday, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Frank Mwesigwa, the UPF Operations Service (OPS) Director, inspected the Catholic and Anglican shrines in Namugongo to assess security preparedness.
Mwesigwa met with commanders of various security teams, including organizers, and confirmed that deployment plans were being implemented effectively.
“I have inspected security preparations at the two shrines and commend our officers for ensuring pilgrims’ safety. Over 7,000 overt and covert operatives have been deployed to secure the event,” he said.
The meeting included commanders from the Special Forces Command (SFC), Counter-Terrorism (CT), Field Force Unit (FFU), Regional Police Commanders (RPCs), and Division Police Commanders (DPCs), who agreed to collaborate for a seamless operation.
“Standby teams, mobile squads, and medical teams have also been deployed to provide immediate assistance. We assure pilgrims of their safety and encourage them to attend,” Mwesigwa added.
In an inter-agency meeting, Mwesigwa and Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng discussed security and health contingency plans. Dr. Aceng confirmed that medical teams were on standby to handle emergencies.
“We have first aid teams ready. Whatever challenges arise, we are prepared. Our planning ensures a smooth event,” she said.
Joint Medical Stores has also provided medical support for both shrines.
