The investigation into the murder of former Sports Club Villa captain David Owori has taken a significant turn after police traced his stolen mobile phone and linked some suspects to a series of alleged violent robberies in Kampala.
Owori was attacked near his residence on August 4, 2026, and robbed of his mobile phone and other personal belongings. He later died from injuries sustained during the attack.
According to police, the stolen phone became a crucial lead in the investigation. Detectives traced the device and obtained information that allegedly connected individuals involved in the handling and disposal of stolen electronic devices.
The probe has since expanded beyond Owori’s death, with police saying some of the suspects have been linked to other robbery incidents in Nsambya, Nabisaalu and Makindye.
Four suspects — Ahumuza David, Lubega Martin, Ssegawa Francis and Munguci Elvis — have reportedly been strongly linked to additional crime scenes. Police say they are among those connected to the alleged robbery of a Congolese national in Makindye Division on the same night Owori was attacked.
In that separate case, the victim was allegedly assaulted with a blunt object before losing a mobile phone and other valuables.
Police have also linked Ahumuza David and Magumba Arafat to an earlier aggravated robbery involving Mugisha Edrisa in Makindye on July 31. Edrisa was allegedly struck with a blunt object during the incident.
The developing links have widened the scope of the Owori investigation, with detectives now examining what police describe as a possible network involved not only in violent robberies but also in the movement and disposal of stolen electronics.
Police say stolen phones and other gadgets can move through networks of individuals who buy, store or resell property without establishing where it came from. Investigators are warning that the demand for suspiciously cheap electronics can create a market for stolen goods.
Members of the public have consequently been urged to exercise caution when purchasing phones, tablets, computers and other valuable electronics, particularly when sellers cannot provide credible proof of ownership or legitimate sourcing.
Police are also encouraging buyers to purchase devices from known dealers and, where possible, verify IMEI numbers or serial numbers before completing a transaction.
Anyone who encounters suspected stolen property or dealers handling questionable goods has been urged to report the matter to the nearest police station. Victims seeking to recover stolen items are likewise being encouraged to provide proof of ownership.
For now, the phone taken during the attack on Owori has become one of the key pieces of intelligence helping detectives follow a trail that may extend well beyond the former football captain’s case.