(TheRedAlertNews.com) – The community of Hampstead Norreys, in Berkshire, is in shock after the horrifically violent murder of newlyweds David Barlow and Celia Geyer.
The couple were slain during their honeymoon safari in Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park when they were attacked by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a terrorist organization linked to ISIS.
Richard Davies, a churchwarden at St. Mary’s Church in Hampstead Norreys, expressed profound sorrow, stating that David Barlow was a “pillar of the community.” Barlow had been involved in various community activities, serving on the parish council for over a decade and playing a significant role in local sports clubs. Toby Harris, a parish council member, described Barlow as genuine, humorous, and approachable, often seen at the local pub.
Barlow managed a wood yard and was also the local parish council and cricket club chair. Originally from South Africa, Geyer held a senior position at Belmond, a luxury travel company. Dan Ruff, CEO of Belmond, remembered Geyer as a passionate and creative individual with a zest for life.
The Hampstead Norreys Cricket Club shared a heartfelt tribute to the couple on Facebook, referring to Barlow as “Lord Barlow.” The statement emphasized both individuals’ impact on the community and expressed deep condolences to their families.
Ugandan President Yoweri K. Museveni expressed his condolences and assured that the country’s High Commission in the UK would support the families of Barlow and Geyer. He condemned the attackers, vowing that they would face severe consequences.
The ADF, responsible for the attack, originated in Uganda but has been operating in the Democratic Republic of Congo since the late 1990s. The group declared its allegiance to ISIS approximately four years ago. Last year, Uganda and the DRC initiated a joint mission to counter the ADF’s influence, resulting in significant casualties among the group’s fighters. However, President Museveni acknowledged that the terrorists involved in the attack on the couple had managed to evade patrols assigned to protect tourists in the park.
Following the tragic incident, Britain’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has advised against non-essential travel to the Queen Elizabeth National Park.
