Ugandan football captain David Owori murdered in Kampala street robbery

Sun Sep 06 2026 01:17:23 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The death of SC Villa captain David Owori has shocked Uganda, sparking grief and calls for stronger action against violent crime.

Sc Villed captain and Ugandans national team member David Owori was fatally struck by robbers outside his home in Kampala. The assault involved paving stones and a theft of personal belongings. Owori, 27, had led SC Villa to a 20‑year title gap and was contracted until 2027. The incident has ignited widespread outrage and investigations by police and Parliament. Calls for tougher action against violent crime are growing after the recent murder of rugby international Sydney Gongodyo.

Ugandan football captain David Owori murdered in Kampala street robbery

The death of SC Villa captain and Cranes striker David Owori has sent shock waves throughout the country. Police say he was fatally struck by paving stones when robbers attempted to steal his phone and other possessions beside his home in Makindye.

Owori, 27, had captained SC Villa and represented Uganda in 2021 Africa Cup qualifying. He had signed a contract until 2027 and had helped his club win its first title in 20 years.

Club officials called him a leader, brother and friend. The Federation of Uganda Football Associations praised him as a true role-model on and off the pitch.

The incident occurred on Tuesday night. Witnesses saw a group of attackers hurl stones at Owori before stealing his belongings and leaving the scene. He was rushed to a clinic and then a private hospital, but died of his injuries on Wednesday.

Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala said investigators are analysing evidence to identify those responsible. Parliament observed a minute of silence and urged a swift investigation.

The murder has intensified calls for tougher action against violent crime in Kampala, especially after the recent death of rugby international Sydney Gongodyo.