Reports circulating on social media claiming that SC Villa captain David Owori has died after an alleged attack in Kampala have prompted the record Ugandan champions to issue a statement clarifying his condition.
The speculation spread rapidly on Wednesday, with several posts alleging that the 27-year-old defender had succumbed to injuries reportedly sustained during a suspected attack by unknown assailants in Makindye on Tuesday night.
The reports claimed Owori was attacked near his home at about 8:00 p.m., leaving him with life-threatening injuries before he was rushed to Case Clinic for emergency treatment. They further alleged that he had later died, triggering an outpouring of grief from football fans across the country.
However, SC Villa has dismissed those claims, saying its captain is still alive and receiving treatment in hospital.
The club appealed to supporters and the public to continue praying for the defender as he battles for his life.
Only after the false reports had gained momentum did the club release an official update on Owori’s condition.
“Our hearts are with our captain, David Owori, who remains hospitalised in critical condition following a suspected attack last night. We stand with David and his family during this painful time. Please keep him in your thoughts,” SC Villa said in a statement.
Owori, who wears jersey number 15, has been one of SC Villa’s key players in recent seasons, earning praise for his commanding displays in defence and leadership on and off the pitch. His performances also saw him earn a place in the provisional Uganda Cranes squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Police had not, by Wednesday, issued a detailed statement on the circumstances surrounding the reported attack or announced any arrests. Investigations are expected to establish what happened and identify those responsible.
The incident has sent shockwaves through Uganda’s football fraternity, with supporters, teammates and sports administrators expressing concern over Owori’s condition while urging the public to disregard unverified reports about his death.
The incident also revives memories of the death of national rugby player Sydney Gongodyo, who was killed in a mob attack in June after being wrongly accused of snatching a woman’s handbag in a case of mistaken identity. Several suspects were later arrested and charged before court in connection with his killing. (See related reporting Here and There).
