Ugandan soccer star David Owori has died after being attacked near his home. His club is demanding justice and urging authorities to swiftly arrest those responsible.
SC Villa condemned the killing as a senseless act of violence and appealed to the central African nation's security agencies to track down those responsible. "We call upon the relevant security and law enforcement agencies to urgently pursue, apprehend, and bring to justice the perpetrators of this heinous crime," the club said.
The club said Owori's death represents a profound loss not just for the team but for the country. "This senseless act has robbed the Club and the country of a committed captain and a promising sportsman, and it must not go unanswered," the club said.
Remembering a Leader
SC Villa described Owori as more than an athlete, calling him a role model both on and off the field. "David was a valuable player, leader, and servant of the game whose loss is deeply felt by both the Club and the nation," the club said.Football Federation Responds
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) also issued a statement Wednesday mourning Owori, who played for the national team, the Uganda Cranes, in addition to his role as SC Villa captain.FUFA President Moses Hassim Magogo said Owori was an inspirational figure who represented Uganda with pride. "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," Magogo said.
On behalf of the federation's executive committee, delegates, members, staff and the wider football community, Magogo extended condolences to Owori's family, teammates and coaches. "We have lost a son, a leader and a star. His light on and off the pitch will never be forgotten," Magogo said.