Ugandan Villa Captain David Owori Killed in Kampala Robbery

Ugandan footballer David Owori, captain of SC Villa and a former national team player, has died from serious injuries sustained during a robbery in the capital, Kampala, on Tuesday evening.

According to The Guardian, 27-year-old Aurier was assaulted after he attempted to fend off thieves who were trying to seize his mobile phone and personal possessions.

Police in Kampala reported that passersby found the player unconscious before he was taken to a nearby hospital. He was then transferred to another hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

According to testimonies reported by media outlets, the assailants struck Aurier with paving stones before stealing his belongings and fleeing the scene. The BBC has highlighted details of the attack.

Aouri occupied the positions of right-back and midfielder with SC Villa, contributing to the team's victory in the 2024 Ugandan Premier League title, marking the club's seventeenth title in its history.

The player started his professional career in 2016 with Vipers Sports Club in Uganda, and he also had stints in Europe with Vélez FC in Spain and Östersunds FK in Sweden. He represented the Ugandan national team during the qualifiers for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations.

SC Villa has mourned the loss of their captain, confirming his death after receiving treatment following the attack. The Ugandan Football Association described him as "a leader and an inspiration for an entire generation," noting that he carried the hopes of his country while wearing the national team jersey.

The Ugandan Parliament observed a minute of silence in honor of Awori, amidst a state of sadness in the sports circles, while the National Council of Sports called for justice in light of a series of tragic incidents affecting athletes in the country recently.