Police in the United Kingdom have released a CCTV image of a man wanted in connection with the deaths of a woman and two children in Great Denham, near Bedford. The bodies were discovered on Monday, July 6, after officers forced entry into a £1.3 million house on Carnoustie Drive.
Victims identified
The deceased are believed to be Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, 42, known as Zandile, and her daughters Natalie, 15, and Nala, 5. Formal identification has not yet taken place, but police have strong reason to believe they are the wife and children of Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, who also goes by the name Mark. He is a 45-year-old British citizen of Zimbabwean heritage, originally from Bedford.
Police believe Tshuma left the UK from Heathrow Airport on Saturday, July 4, using a British passport, and is now thought to be in Zimbabwe.
Investigation underway
Detective Inspector Lee Martin, senior investigating officer, said: “We have been carrying out numerous lines of enquiry 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.” He added: “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. Criminal investigation knows no borders. We are actively working with national and international agencies to pursue every available line of enquiry to track you down.”
Detective Inspector Martin urged Tshuma to “do the right thing, come forward and hand yourself in to local authorities.” He expressed that the thoughts of the investigation team remain with Zandile, Natalie, and Nala, as well as all those who loved and knew them.
Community in shock
A family friend, whose daughter was best friends with the youngest victim, described the suspected murders as “incomprehensible.” Speaking about the children, she said: “Both of them - they were amazing.” When asked if she knew of any problems in the family, the woman declined to comment, adding simply: “I am shocked.”
Police reportedly forced entry into the property after concerns were raised about the trio, who had not been seen for several days. The detached house, which Tshuma purchased two years ago for £1.3 million, features a swimming pool, four bedrooms, and four bathrooms.
Background and appeal
It is understood that both Tshuma and his wife were originally from Zimbabwe, while the children were born in the UK. Assistant Chief Constable (ACC) Murphy stated: “We are committing all necessary resources to establish what has happened and to find the person responsible. We have identified a suspect, who was known to all three victims, and who we believe has since left the country.” He emphasized that there is nothing to suggest any wider risk to the public, but added: “We will be increasing the police presence in and around the area to support the investigation and provide reassurance to residents.”
ACC Murphy asked for anyone with information or who saw anything suspicious in Carnoustie Drive, Great Denham, on Friday or Saturday to come forward. The investigation continues as authorities work with national and international agencies to track down the suspect.
