November 13, 2023.
KAMPALA, Uganda | A man who allegedly killed two foreign tourists and their guide in a national park in Uganda last month has been charged with murder and terrorism by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Rashid Abdul Kyoto, also known as Njovu or Tembo, is accused of being a member of a commando group that attacked and robbed the tourists in Queen Elizabeth National Park on October 17, 2023. He is also accused of belonging to a terrorist organisation, the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a rebel group that operates in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.
Kyoto was arrested by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Marine Forces on Lake Edward, where he and his associates had fled after the attack. Two of his accomplices were killed in a shootout and others managed to escape with their weapons. Kyoto was found in possession of the passports, money and visa cards of the tourists and the identity card, employment card, and driving permit of the Ugandan guide.
The victims of the attack were David Barlow, a British national, his South African wife Celia, and their guide Eric Ayai. They were on a honeymoon safari in the park when they were ambushed by the armed men, who also set fire to two vehicles; a Mercedes Benz Cargo Truck and a Toyota Land Cruiser. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, hippos and chimpanzees. It is also a popular destination for tourists, who contribute to the country’s economy and conservation efforts.
Kyoto is to appear before the Nakawa Chief Magistrates’ Court on Monday, November 13, 2023, where charges are to be read to him by a magistrate. The offences elicit a maximum sentence of death, upon conviction.
