The family of a mother and two daughters found dead in a suspected murder have described their “unimaginable loss” and paid thanks for people’s “kindness and compassion”.
An international manhunt is underway for Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, 45, who is suspected of killing his wife and two children and is thought to have left the UK for Zimbabwe
Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, 42, known as Zandile; Natalie, 15; and Nala, five, were found dead in a £1.3 million detached house in Carnoustie Drive, Great Denham, near Bedford, after concerns were raised on Monday that they had not been seen for several days.
The force has 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 country from Heathrow Airport on a British passport on Saturday.
In a statement issued 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.”
They said they are currently unable to comment further due to the police investigation, and they are awaiting “guidance from the relevant authorities” to confirm funeral and memorial arrangements.
The family added: “We respectfully ask for patience and understanding as the necessary processes are completed. An official update will be shared as soon as further information can be released.
“We kindly request that the media and members of the public respect our family’s privacy during this profoundly difficult time and refrain from sharing or circulating unverified information or speculation.
“The Khumalo family sincerely appreciates the continued love, prayers, and support shown by family, friends, and the wider community.”
Tshuma is now believed to be in Zimbabwe but the African country does not appear on a list of the UK’s extradition treaty partners.
He owns and runs a property business called Nexus Trove Holdings from his address in Great Denham, according to Companies House.
Most recent filings show that the business had just over £1 million in assets at the end of 2024.
The firm, of which he is the sole director, made a £48,277 profit that year.
According to Rightmove, the property was bought for £1,270,000 in May 2024, and has a swimming pool, four bedrooms and four bathrooms.
Both girls were privately educated. Natalie went to Bedford Girls’ School while Nala was at Pilgrims Pre Prep School.
Nala’s headteacher, Jo Webster, said that she was a “much-loved member of our school community” who “brought joy to those around her every day”.
Ms Webster 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.
“Whether she was proudly wearing one of her favourite colourful hair accessories, making those around her laugh or taking centre stage in our pre-school nativity, Nala brought warmth and happiness wherever she went.
“She was kind, caring and affectionate, with a huge smile that brightened every room and hugs that made everyone feel special. For such a little person, she had an extraordinary impact on our community and will be remembered with enormous love and affection.”
Gemma Gibson, headmistress of Bedford Girls’ School, said that Natalie was a “bright and accomplished Year 10 student” who was “dearly loved by everyone”.
Her statement went on: “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; she will be remembered with great warmth and affection.
“Her tragic death, together with that of her loving mother and younger sister, who were also well known to many of us, is a hugely devastating shock to all at Bedford Girls’ School and the Harpur Trust group of schools.”
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 continued: “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.
“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.”
At least four police cars could be seen parked outside the property on Tuesday evening.
The driveway was cordoned off and bunches of flowers were laid on a hedge outside the house.
A woman, who was among five people who laid flowers outside the house on Tuesday, tearfully told the press: “We’re really sorry to lose her.
“She was such a gracious mother.”
Another resident, who did not wish to be named, expressed shock that the incident took place in “such a nice and safe area”.
Around a two-minute walk from the house is The Bedford, an abandoned golf clubhouse, and the area of grass close to the property appears to have been part of a golf course.
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