David Owori, a prominent Ugandan footballer, died on 5/8 at age 27 after being brutally attacked by robbers near his home in Kampala. The incident occurred on the evening of 4/8 as Owori was returning to his residence in the Makindye area, a Kampala suburb. He was assaulted by a group of robbers after resisting their attempt to steal his phone and other personal belongings.

Witnesses reported that the assailants used paving stones to beat Owori, leaving him unconscious before taking his valuables. He was initially taken to a nearby clinic and then transferred to a private hospital in Kampala, but succumbed to his severe injuries.

David Owori during his time with SC Villa. Photo: SC Villa.

Asan Kasingye, spokesperson for SC Villa, Owori's club, confirmed the player was ambushed just outside his home. Kasingye stated, "Owori was attacked by thugs as he approached his house, sustaining severe injuries before being rushed to an emergency medical facility."

Local police are collecting evidence and searching for the suspects involved. Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala confirmed, "The crime scene has been documented and processed to ensure all important evidence is gathered and preserved."

Owori's death sent shockwaves across Uganda. Fans, teammates, sports officials, and politicians have called for the swift prosecution of those responsible. On 5/8, the Uganda Parliament held a minute of silence in memory of Owori, urging authorities to expedite the investigation.

SC Villa, the most successful club in the Uganda Premier League, extended its condolences for their captain. The club described Owori's passing as a major loss for Ugandan football, highlighting the country's loss of a talented player, an outstanding leader, and a role model both on and off the field. A club statement read, "This senseless act has robbed the club and the country of a dedicated captain and a promising athlete. David Owori will be remembered as someone who always contributed to SC Villa, a respected leader both on and off the field, with professionalism, passion, and a sense of responsibility."

The Uganda Football Federation (FUFA) praised Owori as a leader and an inspiration for a generation both on and off the field. The Uganda national team also expressed its condolences, stating they had lost a star "who carried the hopes of the entire nation."

Owori, affectionately known by fans as "Colgate", was a versatile player, excelling as both a right-back and midfielder. Born in 1998, he returned to SC Villa in 2023 after two years of playing in Europe, quickly becoming a key team member. His versatility, strong tactical mindset, and influence in the locker room led to his contract being extended until 1/2027. He had competed in the 2021 Africa Cup qualifiers and was considered one of Uganda's most promising players. Owori contributed to SC Villa winning their 17th national championship in the 2023-2024 season, extending the club's record in Uganda. He also helped the team secure the National Super Cup last season.

Owori's murder sparked widespread outrage on social media in Uganda, with many calling on the government to implement stronger measures to curb violent crime in Kampala. His death occurred just weeks after another Ugandan athlete, national rugby player Sydney Gongodyo, also died in a mob attack in Kampala.

Hong Duy (according to BBC, The Sun)