Uganda is mourning the loss of national footballer David Owori, who died at the age of 27 after suffering fatal injuries during an alleged robbery near his home in Kampala.
According to police, the SC Villa captain was attacked on Tuesday night after reportedly resisting an attempt by suspected robbers to steal his mobile phone and other personal belongings. The incident has sparked widespread grief across the country and renewed concerns about violent crime in the Ugandan capital.
Witnesses said a group of attackers assaulted Owori with paving stones before taking his valuables and fleeing the scene, leaving him critically injured outside his home in the Makindye suburb of Kampala.
SC Villa spokesperson Asan Kasingye said the defender was ambushed as he approached his residence and sustained life-threatening injuries during the attack. He was initially taken to a nearby medical clinic before being transferred to a private hospital in Kampala, where he died on Wednesday despite medical efforts.
Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala confirmed that investigators have launched a full inquiry into the killing. She said officers processed the crime scene and collected evidence as detectives continue searching for those responsible.
The death of Owori has sent shockwaves through Uganda’s football community and beyond, with teammates, supporters, sports officials and political leaders paying tribute while demanding justice.
SC Villa described the late defender as more than just a footballer, calling him a leader, brother and friend whose impact on the club would never be forgotten.
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) praised Owori as an inspiring figure both on and off the pitch, saying he represented leadership, dedication and professionalism throughout his career. Uganda’s national team, the Cranes, also honoured him, describing him as a player who proudly carried the hopes of the nation.
Uganda’s Parliament observed a minute of silence in his memory on Wednesday and urged authorities to ensure those responsible are quickly identified and prosecuted.
Owori, affectionately known as “Colgate,” enjoyed a distinguished career with SC Villa, where he played as both a right-back and midfielder. After returning to the club for a second spell in 2023, he became one of its longest-serving players and helped guide the record Ugandan champions to their first league title in two decades, securing a historic 17th Uganda Premier League crown in 2024.
His performances earned him a contract extension until January 2027, while his displays for Uganda during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign established him as a regular contender for future national team selection.
The tragedy has also reignited public debate over security in Kampala, with many Ugandans using social media to express frustration over rising violent crime and to demand stronger measures to protect residents.
Owori’s death comes only weeks after another prominent Ugandan athlete, rugby international Sydney Gongodyo, was killed in a separate violent attack in Kampala, further intensifying calls for improved public safety.
