Security forces apprehended more than 100 suspected thieves at both the Anglican and Catholic shrines in Namugongo during yesterday’s Martyrs Day celebration.

Despite the heavy security presence, several pilgrims reported losing phones, money, and national IDs to groups of pickpockets operating in the area.

In a disturbing twist, some of the suspects were found donning blue reflector jackets with ushering tags and participating in the collection of offerings.

Clerics at the Catholic shrine alerted pilgrims to be vigilant during the offertory collection, urging them to only trust authorized collectors.

“Please note that only authorized collectors with red bags are legitimate,” a cleric announced over the microphone. “We have unauthorized people collecting the offertory. Please note that our ushers are in red jackets.”

Kampala Metropolitan deputy police spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire, who was present at the Catholic shrine, confirmed several reports of a robbery.

“So far, we have registered cases of simple robberies where people have lost their IDs, money, and phones. We have apprehended over 100 suspects,” Owoyesigyire stated.

Authorities have assured the public that they are taking all necessary measures to prevent further incidents and to safeguard the belongings of the pilgrims.