A man suspected of murdering his wife and two daughters in Great Denham, near Bedford, has been arrested by police in South Africa. Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, 45, was apprehended in Kensington, Johannesburg, on Friday, following the discovery of the bodies of Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, 42, and their daughters Natalie, 15, and Nala, five, at their family home on Monday.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in the UK has since authorised three murder charges against Mr Tshuma. He is a Zimbabwean national who had reportedly left the UK via Heathrow Airport on a British passport two days before his arrest.
South African police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe issued a strong warning, stating that the country would not serve as a “hide-out” for suspected criminals. “We will trace you, we will find you and we will arrest you,” she told reporters. Mr Tshuma is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, with the “necessary legal and extradition process” set to occur in collaboration with UK authorities.
Detective Inspector Lee Martin of Bedfordshire Police highlighted the rapid pace of the investigation, which involved multiple law enforcement partners. “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,” he said. He added, “Thanks to the tireless work and dedication of all those involved, we have managed to swiftly locate and arrest Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma.” Emma Davies, Chief Crown Prosecutor from the CPS, confirmed that the charges were brought after a “careful review of evidence provided by Bedfordshire Police.”
Concerns were initially raised to police on Monday after neighbours had not seen the family for several days. The family resided in a detached house on Carnoustie Drive in Great Denham.
A family member released a statement through Bedfordshire Police on Thursday, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support. “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,” the statement read. “Your kindness and compassion have brought great strength to our family.”
Tributes have also been paid to the young victims. Jo Webster, head teacher of Pilgrims Pre-Prep School, described five-year-old Nala as a “ray of sunshine.” Bedford Girls’ School head Gemma Gibson remembered 15-year-old Natalie, a Year 10 pupil, as “bright and accomplished,” noting her talents as a dancer, musician, and sportswoman.
