Photo Credit:Getty Images
Police in Uganda are investigating the killing of football captain David Owori, who died after being attacked by suspected robbers in Kampala. The 27-year-old, who captained Sports Club (SC) Villa in the Uganda Premier League and represented the Uganda national team, succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday, Aug. 5, a day after the assault.
According to the BBC, Owori was attacked near his home on the night of Tuesday, Aug. 4, after reportedly confronting thieves who were attempting to steal his cellphone and other belongings. Witnesses told authorities they saw several attackers repeatedly striking him with paving stones before fleeing the scene.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala said passersby found the footballer, who was also known by the nickname "Colgate," and rushed him to Sir Albert Cook Hospital for emergency treatment. At about 2 a.m. on Wednesday, he was transferred to Case Hospital for specialized care but later died from his injuries.
Police have since launched an investigation and are collecting evidence from the crime scene as they work to identify and arrest those responsible for the fatal attack.
SC Villa expressed its grief in an official statement, calling on authorities to ensure justice is served. The club described Owori's death as a senseless act that had deprived both the team and the country of a dedicated captain and talented footballer.
The club also remembered him as a respected leader whose professionalism, commitment, and passion inspired teammates and supporters throughout his career.
Tributes have continued to pour in from across Uganda's football community. The Uganda national team, the Cranes, honored Owori on Instagram, saying he was much more than a footballer. The team described him as a leader who inspired an entire generation and proudly carried the hopes of the nation whenever he represented Uganda.
Former club Vipers Sports Club, where Owori played between 2016 and 2018, also expressed its sadness, describing his passing as heartbreaking.
Beyond his time in Uganda, Owori also had spells with Vélez CF in Spain and Utsiktens BK in Sweden, building an international playing career.
Uganda's Parliament observed a minute of silence in his memory on Wednesday, Aug. 5. Lawmakers also called for justice for Owori's family as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding his death.
