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Police in South Africa say they have arrested a man on suspicion of murdering his wife and two daughters near Bedford.<\/p>\n
Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, 42, Natalie, 15, and Nala, five, were found dead at the family home in Great Denham on Monday.<\/p>\n
Zimbabwean national Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma had left the country via Heathrow Airport on a British passport two days earlier.<\/p>\n
But on Friday, the 45-year-old was arrested in Kensington, Johannesburg, and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in the UK said it had since authorised three murder charges against him.<\/p>\n
South African police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said the arrest served as a “stern warning” that the country was not a “hide-out” for any suspected criminals.<\/p>\n
“We will trace you, we will find you and we will arrest you,” she said, speaking to reporters.<\/p>\n
The suspect was due to appear in court on Monday, Mathe said, adding that the “necessary legal and extradition process” would take place alongside UK authorities.<\/p>\n
Det Insp Lee Martin, of Bedfordshire Police, said: “This has been a fast-moving investigation which has involved multiple law enforcement partners, including the National Crime Agency, Interpol and authorities in both Zimbabwe and South Africa.<\/p>\n
“Thanks to the tireless work and dedication of all those involved, we have managed to swiftly locate and arrest Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma.”<\/p>\n
Emma Davies, chief crown prosecutor from the CPS, said the charges followed “careful review of evidence provided by Bedfordshire Police”.<\/p>\n
“Our thoughts remain with Zandile, Natalie and Nala’s loved ones and with everyone affected by what has happened,” she said.<\/p>\n