Uganda is mourning the tragic death of national footballer David Owori, who died after being attacked by suspected robbers near his home in Kampala.
Police said the 27-year-old was assaulted on Tuesday night after reportedly resisting an attempt to steal his mobile phone and other belongings. Witnesses said the attackers struck him with paving stones before fleeing, leaving him critically injured.
Owori was rushed to a nearby clinic before being transferred to a private hospital in Kampala, where he succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday.
The defender captained SC Villa, Uganda’s most successful football club, and also represented the Uganda Cranes national team. Known to fans as “Colgate,” he was widely respected for his leadership, versatility, and commitment on and off the pitch.
His death is a devastating loss, we have lost more than a player , a leader, brother and friend.
SC VILLA
He was a true leader on and off the pitch.
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA)
Owori returned to SC Villa in 2023 after a two-year stint in Europe and helped the club win its first Uganda Premier League title in 20 years in 2024. He had recently signed a contract extension that would have kept him at the club until January 2027.
Police said investigations are ongoing, with detectives pursuing leads to identify and arrest those responsible.
His death has sparked widespread grief and renewed concern over violent crime in Kampala, with fans, politicians, and fellow players demanding swift justice. Uganda’s Parliament observed a minute of silence in his honour.
Owori’s killing comes just weeks after the death of Ugandan rugby international Sydney Gongodyo, who was also killed in a violent attack in Kampala, further fueling calls for stronger action against rising insecurity.
