KAMPALA, Uganda — Police in Uganda have arrested 17 people in connection with the murder of David Owor, captain of Sports Club Villa, as investigators continue to pursue other suspects allegedly linked to the killing.
Kampala Metropolitan Police said the arrests represent significant progress in the investigation. The suspects include three alleged promoters of stolen mobile phones, five key suspects and nine associates of the alleged prime suspects.
Police spokesperson Racheal Kawala said the investigation had uncovered evidence suggesting the suspects were part of a gang involved in attacks on members of the public.
“During interrogation, the key suspects disclosed that the group had been conducting attacks on members of the community, allegedly using paving blocks,” Kawala said.
She said the suspects had also identified several alleged accomplices who investigators were working to trace.
“On the fateful day, they moved as a gang and attacked unsuspecting members of the public in areas around Nsambya, Nabisaalu, Kirombe and Makindye,” Kawala said.
Police allege that on the night of 4 August, the group attacked Owor and robbed him of his mobile phone.
An iPhone 14 Pro Max believed to have belonged to the football captain was later recovered at Usafi Taxi Park, near Usafi Market in Kampala.
Kawala said searches of the suspects’ residences in Gangu Village and Kasubi had also led to the recovery of items investigators believe could help establish what happened to Owor.
Among the recovered items were two pairs of shoes, including one with suspected bloodstains, as well as a pair of shin guards found inside a black bag and believed to have belonged to Owor. Police also recovered a canister of pepper spray, a motorcycle and other exhibits considered relevant to the investigation.
Kawala said police were continuing efforts to locate the remaining suspects and bring them before the courts.
“Police are continuing with efforts to trace, arrest and bring to justice the remaining suspects and other associates linked to the group,” she said.
The circumstances surrounding Owor’s death remain under investigation.
