An international manhunt is underway for Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, 45, who is suspected of killing his wife and two daughters in Great Denham, near Bedford. The family of the victims have described their “unimaginable loss” and thanked the public for their “kindness and compassion”.
Victims identified
The bodies of Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, 42, known as Zandile, and her daughters Natalie, 15, and Nala, five, were found in a £1.3 million detached house on Carnoustie Drive. Police were alerted on Monday after concerns that the family had not been seen for several days.
Bedfordshire Police have issued a CCTV image of Tshuma, who goes by the name Mark. He is a British citizen of Zimbabwean heritage and is believed to have left the UK from Heathrow Airport on Saturday, using a British passport. He is now thought to be in Zimbabwe, a country that does not have an extradition treaty with the UK.
Family tribute
In a statement released by Bedfordshire Police on Thursday, 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. Your kindness and compassion have brought great strength to our family.”
The family said they cannot comment further due to the ongoing police investigation and are awaiting guidance from authorities regarding funeral and memorial arrangements. They asked the media and public to respect their privacy and refrain from sharing unverified information.
Background of suspect
Tshuma owns and runs a property business called Nexus Trove Holdings, registered at the Great Denham address, according to Companies House. The company had over £1 million in assets at the end of 2024 and made a profit of £48,277 that year. Tshuma is the sole director. The property was purchased for £1,270,000 in May 2024 and features a swimming pool, four bedrooms, and four bathrooms.
Both girls were privately educated. Natalie attended Bedford Girls’ School, while Nala was at Pilgrims Pre Prep School.
Tributes from schools
Nala’s headteacher, Jo Webster, described her as a “much-loved member of our school community” who “brought joy to those around her every day”. She added: “Many of our staff had known her since she was just seven months old and had the privilege of watching her grow. She was a little ray of sunshine, known for her inquisitive and bubbly nature, her positivity, happiness and her wonderful sense of humour.”
Gemma Gibson, headmistress of Bedford Girls’ School, said Natalie was a “bright and accomplished Year 10 student” who was “dearly loved by everyone”. She added: “She was a talented dancer, musician and keen sportswoman. She was fun-loving, full of life and had a positive impact on everyone she came into contact with.”
Police appeal
Detective Inspector Lee Martin said: “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. Mark, unthinkable harm has been caused to those around you, and this has left your relatives and friends utterly devastated.”
He added: “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.”
Community reaction
At least four police cars were seen outside the property on Tuesday evening, with the driveway cordoned off and flowers laid on a hedge. A woman who laid flowers said tearfully: “We’re really sorry to lose her. She was such a gracious mother.” Another resident expressed shock that the incident occurred in “such a nice and safe area”. The property is near an abandoned golf clubhouse, and the area was once part of a golf course.
