Massangano: More than 245 employees from the Ministry of the Interior are ensuring the smooth conduct of the annual pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Victories, which has been taking place since Friday in Massangano, located in the province of Cuanza Norte. The event, held from August 15th to 17th, is organized by the Catholic Church and is anticipated to draw over 10,000 faithful from various provinces across the country.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the second commander of the National Police in the municipality of Massangano, Superintendent Ant³nio Manuel Soares, emphasized that the security of the attendees is being managed by personnel from several departments, including the National Police, Civil Protection and Fire Services (SPCB), Criminal Investigation (SIC), and Emigration and Foreigners (SME). This comprehensive security effort also involves 10 technicians from the medical emergency services.
To mitigate accidents, the authorities have established multiple signposted areas and traffic control posts to enhance motorist awareness. Containment and guidance barriers have been installed as part of these preventive measures. Fire prevention efforts have been reinforced by strategically positioning firefighters in areas prone to fire hazards, and to avert drownings, lifeguard detachments have been stationed at bathing areas, supported by a patrol boat.
Superintendent Soares also noted that police forces are on standby to respond swiftly to any disruptions in order. They are also tasked with the security of vehicles parked in designated areas and maintaining statistical records of all pilgrims accessing the site by land or river. The opening day of the event, themed "with Our Lady of Victories let us be faithful and joyful disciples," saw the registration of 3,429 pilgrims.
