A man suspected of killing his wife and two teenage daughters in their Bedfordshire home has been arrested in South Africa, after an international manhunt that spanned three continents.
Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, 45, was taken into custody in Kensington, Johannesburg, on Friday following an intensive operation involving Interpol, Crime Intelligence and the Organised Crime Investigation Unit, the South African Police Service said. The Crown Prosecution Service in the UK has since authorised three murder charges against him.
“Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma arrested in South Africa on suspicion of murdering his wife and daughters in Bedfordshire.”
Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, 42, known as Zandile, and her daughters Natalie, 15, and Nala, five, were found dead at their £1.3 million detached home in Carnoustie Drive, Great Denham, near Bedford, on Monday. Neighbours had raised concerns after the family had not been seen for several days.
Tshuma, a British citizen of Zimbabwean heritage who goes by Mark, had left the UK via Heathrow Airport on Saturday, two days before the bodies were discovered. Police believe he travelled to South Africa after first going to Zimbabwe.
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.”
Tshuma has been remanded in custody and is due to appear in court on Monday. South African police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said the arrest served as a “stern warning” that the country was not a “hide-out” for any suspected criminals. “We will trace you, we will find you and we will arrest you,” she said.
Work is now under way to return Tshuma to the UK, where he will face the charges. Emma Davies, chief crown prosecutor from the CPS, said the charges followed “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,” she said.
In a statement issued by Bedfordshire Police on Thursday, a family member said: “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.”
Tributes have also been paid to the sisters. Jo Webster, head teacher at Pilgrims Pre-Prep School, described Nala as a “ray of sunshine”. Gemma Gibson, head of Bedford Girls’ School, said Year 10 pupil Natalie was “bright and accomplished”, remembering her as a dancer, musician and sportswoman.
The extradition process is expected to take place alongside UK authorities, with the suspect due in a South African court on Monday.
