David Owori, one of Uganda’s most famous footballers, beaten to death

Sports Club Villa have described David Owori as a ‘leader, brother and friend’

One of Uganda’s best-known footballers has been beaten to death after an assault by unidentified assailants in the suburb of the country’s capital city.

David Owori, aged 27, who captained major side Sports Club Villa and played for the national team, died after injuries suffered in an attack in Kampala on Tuesday after reportedly resisting an attempt to steal his mobile phone.

He was found unconscious by passers-by, who took him to a nearby hospital. He was then transferred to another hospital where he was later pronounced dead, police spokesman Rachael Kawala said.

Ugandans have posted tributes on social media and expressed their outrage at the assault, with many calling for justice.

David Owori

Owori played both as a right-back and midfielder for SC Villa

Owori, who was affectionately known as “Colgate”, died just weeks after the death of rugby player Sydney Gongodyo, who was assaulted by a mob in Kampala after being mistaken for a thief, according to police.

SC Villa said: “We have lost more than a player – we have lost a leader, brother and friend. Uganda has lost not only an accomplished footballer but also an exceptional leader and role model.

“This senseless act has robbed the Club and the country of a committed captain and a promising sportsman, and it must not go unanswered.

“David was a valuable player, leader, and servant of the game whose loss is deeply felt by both the Club and the nation.

“We call upon the relevant security and law enforcement agencies to urgently pursue, apprehend, and bring to justice the perpetrators of this heinous crime.”

Parliament held a minute’s silence in honour of Owori on Wednesday and has called for an investigation.

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations said in a statement: “David was not just a footballer. He was both a leader and an inspiration to a generation. As Captain of SC Villa, he led with courage, humility and passion. In the Uganda Cranes jersey, he carried the hopes of a nation.”

The state-run National Council of Sports Uganda said: “Sadly, Ugandan sport has been hit with many such tragedies lately, and we hope for justice and a lasting solution.”

Owori featured for the national side during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, and helped SC Villa to their first league title in 20 years in 2024.