David Owori, a 27-year-old Ugandan footballer, has died after being brutally beaten by robbers near his residence in Kampala on Tuesday.

Uganda Police confirmed that the athlete was found unconscious after the robbers attempted to steal his belongings. People who passed by rushed him to the nearest hospital.

Owori’s club side, SC Villa, announced in an official statement expressing condolences to his family. 

“It is with profound sorrow that we announce the untimely passing of our captain, David Owori, who had been receiving treatment at Case Clinic following an attack by suspected thugs. Our deepest condolences and prayers are with his family. Rest in peace, Captain, the statement read. 

The loss of the Ugandan international has drawn widespread tributes from the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), teams in the Uganda Premier League, and fans.

FUFA mourned Owori as “not just a footballer”, but as “an inspiration to a generation”.

“On behalf of the FUFA Executive Committee, Delegates, Members, Secretariat Staff and the entire football fraternity, we extend our deepest condolences to SC Villa, his family, teammates, coaches and all Ugandans on the loss of Owori.

“We have lost a son, a leader and a star. His light on and off the pitch will never be forgotten,” FUFA said in a statement.

The defender, popularly known as Colgate by fans, played a crucial part in leading SC Villa to their 17th league title in 2024.

Owori’s funeral is scheduled to hold on Saturday, 8 August.