The number of suspects arrested in connection with the murder of SC Villa captain David Owori has risen to 17 as Kampala Metropolitan Police intensifies investigations into the incident.
The suspects include three alleged stolen-phone dealers, five key suspects and nine associates of the prime suspects, according to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SP Rachael Kawala.
Kawala said the key suspects have provided information that has helped police identify other members of the group allegedly 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 (pavers), and identified several of their accomplices,” Kawala said.
Police said the suspects disclosed that they operated as a gang and attacked unsuspecting members of the public in areas including Nsambya, Nabisaalu, Kirombe and Makindye in Kampala.
According to Kawala, Owori was attacked on the night of August 4, 2026, by the suspects and others still at large, who allegedly robbed him of his mobile phone.
An iPhone 14 Pro Max, suspected to have belonged to Owori, was later recovered at Usafi Taxi Park near Usafi Market in Kampala.
Police also recovered several exhibits during searches at the suspects’ residences in Gangu Village, Kasubi, including two pairs of shoes. One of the pairs had bloodstains and is suspected to be linked to the incident.
Other recovered items include a pair of shin guards found in a black bag and suspected to have belonged to Owori, a canister of pepper spray, a motorcycle and other items considered relevant to the investigation.
Kawala said police are continuing efforts to trace and arrest other suspects and associates linked to the group.
“Police are continuing with efforts to trace, arrest and bring to justice the remaining suspects and other associates linked to the group,” she said.
Owori, 27, who captained SC Villa, was attacked on the night of August 4 and later died at Case Hospital from injuries sustained during the incident.
Police said investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death are still ongoing, with further updates expected as more information becomes available.
