African Footballer Beaten to Death in Uganda

Ugandan footballer and SC Villa captain David Owori has died after he was reportedly beaten during an attempted robbery in Kampala.

The 27-year-old defender was attacked by suspected robbers near his home in the Makindye area on Tuesday night.

According to police, the attackers allegedly tried to steal his mobile phone and other belongings before assaulting him. Witnesses said Owori was repeatedly hit with paving stones and left seriously injured.

He was rushed to a medical facility and later transferred to a private hospital in Kampala, where he died on Wednesday despite efforts to save his life.

SC Villa spokesperson Asan Kasingye described the incident as a “tragic ambush”.

Police have started an investigation and said detectives have processed the scene and collected evidence to identify those responsible.

Owori’s death has shocked Uganda’s football community. The Federation of Uganda Football Associations described him as “a true leader on and off the pitch”.

Owori was one of Uganda’s respected defenders and could also play in midfield. In 2024, he captained SC Villa to their first Uganda Premier League title in 20 years, helping the club win its record 17th league crown.

He also represented Uganda during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The Ugandan Parliament observed a minute’s silence in his honour, while lawmakers called for those responsible for his death to be brought to justice.

Owori is remembered for his leadership, discipline and contribution to Ugandan football.