Police in Kampala have launched investigations into the death of a 27-year-old Uganda Rugby Cranes star who succumbed to injuries sustained during a mob attack in Nakawa Division.
Sydney Gongodyo , a resident of Najjera in Kira Municipality, Wakiso District, and a student at Makerere University was also a player for Stanbic Black Pirates Rugby Club.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, Racheal Kawala, the incident occurred on June 5, 2026, at around 2:00 p.m. in Masulira Zone, Bukoto I Parish, Nakawa Division.
“”It is alleged that while in Masulira Zone, the victim was subjected to mob action by members of the public under circumstances that are still under investigation,” Kawala said in a statement.
She said police officers responded to the scene and rushed the victim to Mulago National Referral Hospital for treatment.
” Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries at the hospital on 5th June 2026 at approximately 7:00 p.m.”
She said acase of murder by mob action has since been registered at Kira Road Police Station as investigators work to establish the events that led to the fatal assault.
Kawala said investigations remain ongoing and that police are pursuing those responsible for the attack.
“Efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the suspects involved so that they can be brought to justice,” she said.
Police have urged members of the public to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and instead report suspected criminal activity to security agencies for proper handling.
Gongodyo was part of the Black Pirates team that won both the Uganda Rugby Premiership and Uganda Cup last season.
He was expected to be part of the Black Pirates team that was due to face Heathens on Sunday, at Kyandondo.
His death has shocked a number of rugby fans, players and other stakeholders.
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