Newlyweds David Barlow and Celia Geyer were tragically killed in a horrific attack by an ISIS-linked terror cell while on their honeymoon safari in Uganda's Queen Elizabeth National Park. The couple, described as pillars of their community, were mourned by friends and acquaintances who remembered them as genuine, kind-hearted individuals. David, who served on the parish council for over a decade, was highly regarded in the community and known for always prioritizing the needs of others. He was involved in various sports clubs and was well-liked by everyone who knew him. Friends and colleagues spoke fondly of David, describing him as approachable, down-to-earth, and with a great sense of humor.

Celia, originally from South Africa, held a senior position at Belmond, a luxury travel firm. Her colleagues and neighbors spoke highly of her unique skills, creativity, and passion for her work. She was remembered as a remarkable woman and a legend in her own right. Despite only meeting Celia once, friends described her as friendly, welcoming, and a genuinely nice person. Their popularity was evident as members of the community traveled to attend their wedding just days before the tragic incident.

The Hampstead Norreys cricket club, where David was the chair, paid tribute to the couple on Facebook, affectionately calling David "Lord Barlow." The entire club expressed their condolences and offered their thoughts and prayers to the families of David and Celia. Photographs of their burnt-out safari truck circulated, further highlighting the horrifying nature of the attack.

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni expressed his condolences and vowed that the terrorists responsible for the attack would pay with their own lives. He acknowledged that there were gaps in the security measures that allowed the terrorists to carry out the attack. Museveni stated that Uganda's High Commission in the UK would support the families of the victims during this tragic time.

Following the attack, the British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office issued an updated travel advisory, warning against all but essential travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park. They advised those currently in the park to follow the advice of local security authorities and consider leaving the area if it is safe to do so.

The deaths of David and Celia Barlow serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by terrorist groups linked to ISIS. The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an organization originally founded in Uganda but now based in the Democratic Republic of Congo, swore allegiance to ISIS four years ago. Efforts to eliminate the group have been ongoing, with over 560 fighters killed in a joint operation by Uganda and the DRC. However, the recent attack reveals the challenges faced in fully eradicating the terrorist threat.

As friends, family, and the community come to terms with the shocking loss of David and Celia, their memory will continue to live on through the fond memories shared by those who knew them best. Their tragic deaths serve as a somber reminder of the need for continued vigilance and international cooperation in the fight against terrorism.