KAMPALA — Police have arrested 17 suspects in connection with the murder of David Owor, captain of Sports Club Villa, as investigations into the killing continue.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police, the suspects include three alleged stolen-phone promoters, five key suspects and nine associates of the prime suspects.
Police said the investigation has established that the group allegedly operated as a gang and had been attacking members of the public in different parts of Kampala.
During interrogation, the key suspects reportedly told investigators that the group carried out attacks using paving blocks, commonly known as pavers, and identified several people allegedly involved in the activities.
Police said the suspects further revealed that on the day Owor was killed, the group moved around as a gang and attacked unsuspecting members of the public in areas including Nsambya, Nabisaalu, Kirombe and Makindye.
According to the police account, on the night of August 4, 2026, Owor was allegedly attacked by the suspects and others who remain at large before his mobile phone was stolen.
An iPhone 14 Pro Max, suspected to have belonged to Owor, was later recovered at Usafi Taxi Park near Usafi Market in Kampala.
Police also recovered several other exhibits during searches at the residences of suspects in Gangu Village and Kasubi, including two pairs of shoes, one of which reportedly had bloodstains and is suspected to be linked to the murder.
Investigators also recovered a pair of shin guards found inside a black bag, which police suspect may have belonged to Owor.
Other exhibits recovered include a canister of pepper spray, a motorcycle and additional items believed to be relevant to the investigation.
Police said efforts are continuing to trace and arrest other suspects and associates believed to be connected to the group.
“The investigations into the circumstances surrounding the murder are ongoing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available,” said SP Racheal Kawala, Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson.
The murder of Owor has attracted significant attention among football supporters, with police now seeking to establish the full circumstances surrounding the attack and identify all those involved.