Ugandan captain David Owori killed in Kampala suspected robbery attack

Uganda international and SC Villa captain David Owori died after being attacked near his home in the capital city of Kampala.

David Owori, SC Villa captain and Uganda international, was rushed to a hospital after being left unconscious from a brutal attack and died on Wednesday

Ugandan football has been left in mourning after national team player and SC Villa captain David Owori was killed in a suspected robbery attack near his home in Kampala. The shocking incident has sent waves of grief across the country's sporting fraternity, with tributes pouring in for one of Uganda's most respected footballers.According to police, Owori was attacked by a group of assailants in Kampala's Makindye division after they allegedly attempted to rob him of his mobile phone and other personal belongings. Reports indicate that the attackers brutally assaulted him with paving stones before fleeing the scene. Passersby later found the footballer unconscious and rushed him to hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. Authorities have launched an investigation and are searching for those responsible.CLUB STATEMENTIt is with profound sorrow that we announce the untimely passing of our captain, David Owori, who had been receiving treatment at Case Clinic following an attack by suspected thugs.Our deepest condolences and prayers are with his family.Rest in peace, Captain.… pic.twitter.com/8YjXoPDQf9— SC Villa (@SCVillaJogoo) August 5, 2026 Owori, 27, was regarded as one of Uganda's finest footballers and served as captain of SC Villa, one of the country's most successful clubs. He began his professional career with Vipers SC before enjoying spells in Spain and Sweden. Following his return to Uganda, he played a pivotal role in helping SC Villa capture the Uganda Premier League title, earning admiration for his leadership both on and off the pitch.The tragic news triggered an outpouring of condolences from teammates, clubs, fans and the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), which described Owori as an inspiration to the next generation of footballers. Uganda's parliament also observed a minute of silence in his honour, while the National Council of Sports called for swift justice and stronger measures to tackle violent crime.Owori's death has reignited concerns over rising insecurity in Kampala, coming just weeks after another Ugandan athlete, rugby player Sydney Gongodyo, also lost his life in a violent attack. The heartbreaking loss has not only robbed Uganda of one of its brightest football stars but has also intensified calls for authorities to improve public safety and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

David Owori, 27, who captained major side Sports Club Villa and played for the national team, reportedly resisted an attempt to steal his mobile phone.

David Owori, 27, who captained major side Sports Club Villa and played for the national team, reportedly resisted an attempt to steal his mobile phone.

David Owori, 27, who captained major side Sports Club Villa and played for the national team, reportedly resisted an attempt to steal his mobile phone.