An estimated 15,000 pilgrims have arrived at Wipolo in Agago District for the annual memorial prayer in memory of Daudi Okello and Jildo Irwa.
The prayers are taking place on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 amdist tight security. The police reported the arrests of suspected criminals and had deployed additional personnel to ensure a peaceful celebration.
The Wipolo pilgrimage attracts Christians from across Uganda and neighbouring countries for prayers and worship and commemorate, Daudi Okello and Jildo Irwa, who were killed in 1918 for refusing to denounce their faith.
Agago Resident District Commissioner James Nabinson Kidega said pilgrims had travelled from across Uganda and other countries, including Germany, the United Kingdom, South Sudan and Kenya, to attend the annual religious gathering.
“Over 15,000 people have already arrived, and others are still on the way,” Kidega said, adding that representatives from districts across Uganda were also attending the event.
Kidega said security teams had arrested two suspects allegedly linked to criminal activity who traveled from Busia to the pilgrimage, and more than 30 other people suspected of theft and related offences at the memorial site.
He warned young people against using the religious gathering as a cover for criminal activities, including theft, assault and attempts to harm other people.
“Our teams are on the ground, and the thieves are already in the cells,” he said, adding that the situation at the venue remained calm as pilgrims continued with overnight prayers.
The RDC urged Christians travelling to Wipolo to attend the prayers without fear, saying security personnel were working to maintain order throughout the celebration.
SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, the Police Public Relations Officer for North Kyoga Region and acting spokesperson for Aswa West and Aswa East regions, said police and other security agencies had put measures in place to protect pilgrims and their property.
Okema said large religious gatherings could attract opportunistic criminals who might take advantage of the crowds to commit offences such as housebreaking, theft, phone and bag snatching, and simple robbery.
He urged pilgrims to remain vigilant, safeguard their belongings and promptly report suspicious activities to security personnel.
“Members of the public are therefore urged to remain vigilant and take reasonable precautions to safeguard their personal belongings and property,” Okema said.
Police said the security operation included uniformed and plainclothes deployments, as well as patrol teams prepared to respond to emergencies and other security incidents.
Okema added that the Agago District Police Commander had developed operational orders outlining deployment plans in coordination with other security agencies.
Security agencies also cautioned drivers and operators transporting pilgrims to and from the venue against overloading vehicles, speeding and using vehicles in poor mechanical condition.
Pilgrims and transport operators were urged to observe traffic rules and cooperate with security personnel before, during and after the celebration-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
