Police Launch International Manhunt After Triple Murder in Bedfordshire
Bedfordshire Police have launched an international manhunt for Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, 45, also known as Mark, after his wife and two daughters were found dead at their home in Great Denham, near Bedford. The bodies of Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, 42, known as Zandile, and her daughters Natalie, 15, and Nala, five, were discovered on Monday in a detached house. Police believe they were murdered and have identified Tshuma as the prime suspect.
Suspect Believed to Have Fled to Zimbabwe
Investigators have released a CCTV image of Tshuma, a British citizen of Zimbabwean heritage, who is believed to have left the UK from Heathrow Airport on Saturday, bound for Zimbabwe on a British passport. Detective Inspector Lee Martin stated: “We have been carrying out numerous lines of inquiry as part of this fast-paced, complex investigation. We know that Mark Tshuma left the country on Saturday and is now believed to be in Zimbabwe. We are urgently working to find and apprehend him, and would appeal to him directly to hand himself in.”
Appeal to Suspect: 'Criminal Investigation Knows No Borders'
DI Martin directly addressed Tshuma: “Mark, unthinkable harm has been caused to those around you, and this has left your relatives and friends utterly devastated. Criminal investigation knows no borders. We are actively working with national and international agencies to pursue every available line of inquiry to track you down. Please do the right thing, come forward and hand yourself in to local authorities.” He added: “Our thoughts are still very much with Zandile, Natalie and Nala, as well as all of those who loved and knew them, at this extremely difficult time.”
Community Mourns Loss of 'Gracious Mother'
A woman who was among five people who laid flowers outside the family’s house on Tuesday paid tribute to Zandile Tshuma, saying: “We’re really sorry to lose her. She was such a gracious mother.” The community has been left in shock by the tragic deaths, as police continue their efforts to locate the suspect and bring him to justice.
