Police have arrested Omary Naima, of Tanzanian nationality, who is believed to be the last person to be with Vipers’ Nigerian forward Abubakar Lawal before his death on yesterday (Monday).
According to Luke Owoyesigyire, the deputy Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, Naima is currently detained at Kajjansi Police station in Wakiso district as the hunt for other suspects goes on.
“The Crime scene findings indicate that there could have been a third person. This indicates that the victim (Lawal) could not jump to his death. As a result, further investigations have been launched,” noted Luke.
Naima, was the last person to see Lawal at Voice mall located in Bwebajja, along Entebbe Road, a business Centre that houses a hotel facility above it.
Earlier, Police, released a press statement detailing the police findings which read, “Kajjansi Police Division is investigating the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of Lawal, a professional footballer at Vipers Sports Club, who allegedly fell from the third floor of Voice mall Shopping Arcade on the morning of February 24, 2025.”
“Preliminary reports indicate that Lawal arrived at the shopping mall in his vehicle, registration number UBQ 695G, to meet his friend, Naima, residing in room 416 since February 20, 2025. According to Naima, she left Lawal in the room preparing tea and proceeded to a game centre within the mall. Shortly after, at approximately 8:00 AM, Lawal reportedly fell from the balcony. He was rushed to Entebbe Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced dead,” continued the statement.
“Items belonging to the deceased, including two smartphones, a pair of open shoes, headsets, a training kit, and chargers, were recovered from his black backpack. As part of the ongoing investigation, authorities are retrieving CCTV footage and conducting thorough interrogations to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.”
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Rest with Angels Lawal
