Football fans demands justice after Ugandan club captain was killed in suspected robbery attack

• SC Villa captain David Owori died after a suspected robbery attack near his home in Kampala, Uganda.

• The 27-year-old footballer was reportedly assaulted with paving stones before his belongings were stolen.

• Police have launched investigations while SC Villa, Fufa and the Uganda Cranes have paid emotional tributes to the late captain.

• Owori helped SC Villa win the 2024 Uganda Premier League title, ending the club's 20-year wait for the championship, and had recently signed a contract running until 2027.

For many Africans, getting home safely at night has become a prayer. Sadly, that fear has turned into tragedy in Uganda after SC Villa captain David Owori died following a violent attack by suspected robbers near his home in Kampala.

The 27-year-old football star was reportedly attacked on Tuesday night in the Makindye area as he was approaching his residence.

According to eyewitnesses, a group of suspected robbers ambushed him, hit him with paving stones, stole his belongings and fled the scene before help could arrive.

Owori was rushed to a nearby medical centre before doctors transferred him to a private hospital in Kampala. Despite efforts to save him, he later died from the injuries he sustained during the attack.

His club, SC Villa, confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement, saying the loss goes far beyond football.

As reported by the BBC on Thursday, "We have lost more than a player – we have lost a leader, brother and friend," the club said.

SC Villa spokesperson Asan Kasingye also revealed that the attack happened just a short distance from Owori's residence.

"The player was ambushed by thugs as he approached his home, leaving him with life-threatening injuries before he was rushed to the medical facility," Kasingye said.

Police have since launched an investigation into the incident.

Kampala police spokesperson Rachael Kawala said detectives had already examined the crime scene and were working to gather evidence that could lead to the arrest of those responsible.

"The scene of the incident has been documented and processed to ensure that all relevant evidence is collected and preserved," Kawala said.

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Popularly known by his nickname "Colgate," Owori was one of Uganda's respected footballers.

He captained SC Villa, one of Uganda's biggest and most successful football clubs, and also represented the Uganda national team, the Cranes.

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (Fufa) described him as more than just a footballer.

"David was not just a footballer. He was both a leader and an inspiration to a generation," Fufa said in its tribute.

The Uganda Cranes also mourned his passing, saying the country had lost a player who inspired countless young football fans.

Owori returned to SC Villa in 2023 after playing in Europe. He helped the club win its 17th Uganda Premier League title in 2024, ending a 20-year wait for the trophy.

His performances earned him a contract extension that was expected to keep him at the club until 2027.

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His death has sparked widespread anger across Uganda, with football supporters, teammates, public figures and ordinary citizens demanding justice.

The incident has also renewed conversations about violent crime and insecurity in Kampala, with many calling on authorities to strengthen public safety and bring those behind the attack to justice.