A 45-year-old man wanted in the UK over the murders of his wife and two children has been arrested in South Africa after an international manhunt.
Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, who goes by Mark, is charged with the murders of Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, known as Zandile, 42, and their daughters Natalie, 15, and Nala, five. Their bodies were found in a £1.3m detached house in Carnoustie Drive, Great Denham, near Bedford after concerns were raised on Monday that they had not been seen for several days.
“Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, 45, arrested in South Africa for murder of wife and two daughters.”
Tshuma, a British citizen of Zimbabwean heritage, is believed to have left the UK on a British passport on Saturday. He was traced and arrested through "swift operational coordination and intelligence-led policing", the South African Police Service said. The force confirmed he is due to appear in court on Monday.
Emma Davies, chief Crown prosecutor from the CPS, said: "The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised three charges of murder against Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma following the deaths of his wife and two daughters. This comes after the careful review of evidence provided by Bedfordshire Police. Our thoughts remain with Zandile, Natalie and Nala's loved ones and with everyone affected by what has happened."
Bedfordshire Police said Tshuma has been remanded into custody and work is now under way to return him to the UK. Detective Inspector Lee Martin, senior investigating officer at Bedfordshire Police, said: "This has been a fast-moving investigation which has involved multiple law enforcement partners, including the National Crime Agency, Interpol and authorities in both Zimbabwe and South Africa. Thanks to the tireless work and dedication of all those involved, we have managed to swiftly locate and arrest Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma."
In a statement issued by Bedfordshire Police, a family member said: "The Khumalo family is deeply saddened to confirm the passing of our beloved Zandile (Nothabo) Khumalo and her two children. During this time of unimaginable loss, we wish to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has reached out with prayers, messages of comfort, and support."
Davies added: "As criminal proceedings are active, nothing should be reported, commented on or shared online that could prejudice the defendant's right to a fair trial."
