Police trace murdered SC Villa captain Owori’s stolen iPhone, arrest two suspects

What the report says

Police in Uganda say they have made progress in the killing of SC Villa captain David Owori after tracing his stolen iPhone 14 Pro Max, an investigation that led to the arrest of two suspects. The Observer identified the men as Bashir Munyaneza, also known as “Jemo,” who is described as a suspected dealer in stolen mobile phones, and Samuel Magoba. Police said both are in custody and are helping investigators look into other people and possible links to a broader theft network.

According to police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke, follow-up operations also turned up four bags of assorted electronic items believed to have been stolen. The recovered property reportedly includes dozens of smartphones from different brands, several iPads, SIM cards from multiple telecom networks, and other personal items such as bags, identification documents, phone covers and hard drives. Police have asked people who recently lost phones or valuables to check designated stations to see whether their property was recovered.

The case has drawn attention because it centers on the death of a prominent footballer and because it highlights persistent concerns about violent robberies in Kampala and nearby areas. The Observer reported that Owori was attacked while returning home from training in Makindye, a Kampala suburb, and later died from his injuries. As a general matter, such incidents have renewed public pressure for stronger patrols and better street security, though the specific scope of any wider criminal network is still under investigation.