Sports 8 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
SC Villa Captain David Owori Laid to Rest Amidst Calls for Justice
The Ugandan football community mourned the loss of SC Villa captain David Owori, who was brutally murdered. Officials and fans gathered in Tororo for his burial, demanding swift action from authorities. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/tearful-farewell-in-tororo-as-football-community-demands-justice-for-slain-sc-villa-captain-david-owori-5551454
Hundreds of mourners, including relatives, SC Villa teammates, and football fans, gathered in Awuyo village, Tororo District, on Saturday to bid a tearful farewell to Uganda international and SC Villa captain David Owori.
Owori, 28, tragically passed away on Wednesday after being assaulted by unknown assailants near his home in Makindye, Kampala, on Tuesday night. He was found unconscious and later succumbed to his injuries, having been robbed of his mobile phone and personal belongings during the attack. The police have launched an investigation into the incident.
The burial ceremony was marked by widespread condemnation of the escalating insecurity in the country and fervent appeals for justice. West Budama South County MP George Oketcho urged the police to thoroughly investigate the murder, suggesting the deployment of forensic experts if necessary to deter future crimes.
Minister of State for East African Affairs, Magode Ikuya, echoed these concerns, stating that “without decisive action against such violent crimes, no Ugandan is safe.” He emphasized the need for investigators to perform their duties without fear, particularly as Uganda prepares to host the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) paid tribute to Owori, with a message from FUFA President Moses Hassim Magogo highlighting Owori’s role as a leader and inspiration. SC Villa CEO William Nkemba described the killing as a “senseless loss” and pledged the club’s support to the bereaved family, including covering educational expenses for Owori’s son.
Former teammates remembered Owori as a selfless and resilient player who was the “heart of our team.” Owori, known as ‘Colgate,’ was a pivotal figure in SC Villa’s 2024 Uganda Premier League title win, ending a two-decade trophy drought. He also represented the Uganda Cranes in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
This tragic event has sent shockwaves through the nation, prompting urgent calls for improved safety and accountability.