Police have launched a manhunt for Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, a 45-year-old father, after his wife and two daughters were found dead at their home in Great Denham, near Bedford. The victims have been identified as Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, 42, known as Zandile, and her daughters Natalie, 15, and Nala, five. They were discovered in a detached house on Carnoustie Drive on Monday.
Suspect Identified and International Search Underway
Bedfordshire Police believe the deaths were murders and have named Tshuma, who goes by the name Mark, as the suspect. A CCTV image shows Tshuma, a British citizen of Zimbabwean heritage, who is believed to have left the UK from Heathrow Airport on Saturday, travelling to 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.”
Police Appeal for Suspect to Surrender
Detective Inspector Martin directly appealed to 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 Reaction and Scene
On Tuesday evening, at least four police cars were parked outside the property. The driveway was cordoned off, and bunches of flowers were placed on a hedge outside. A woman who laid flowers tearfully told the press: “We’re really sorry to lose her. She was such a gracious mother.” Another resident, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed shock that the incident occurred in “such a nice and safe area.” The house is near an abandoned golf clubhouse, and the surrounding grass was part of a golf course.
