Ugandan police have launched an investigation into the death of Nigerian footballer Abubakar Lawal, who tragically fell from the balcony of a shopping mall in Kampala on Monday.
The 29-year-old striker, who played for the local premiership club Vipers, reportedly fell from the third floor of the Voicemall Shopping Arcade in the early hours of the day, according to a police statement. Lawal had been visiting a Tanzanian friend who was staying in one of the residential apartments within the mall complex. The friend informed authorities that she had left him alone shortly before the incident occurred.
Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage and conducting detailed interrogations to determine the exact circumstances surrounding Lawal’s death.
In a statement, Vipers Sports Club expressed profound grief over the loss of their player. “We are deeply saddened to announce the sudden and untimely passing of our beloved player, Abubakar Lawal, who left us this morning. Our thoughts and prayers are with Lawal’s family, club fans, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time,” the club said.
Lawal had been a key striker for Vipers since joining the team in July 2022, following a two-year stint with AS Kigali in Rwanda. His death has sent shockwaves through the football community, leaving fans and teammates mourning the loss of a talented athlete.