Family of woman and daughters found dead in Bedfordshire issue statement as Zimbabwean suspect still on the run

The family of a woman and two daughters who were found dead in Bedfordshire have issued a statement as the Zimbabwean suspect remains on the run.

Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, 42, and daughters Natalie, 15, and Nala, 5, are believed to be dead after three bodies were found in a property in Great Denham on Monday.

The young girls' father Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma is the main suspect, but it is thought he has fled to Zimbabwe to escape capture by the police.

In a statement released today, the relatives of the woman and girls said: "The Khumalo family is deeply saddened to confirm the passing of our beloved Zandile (Nothabo) Khumalo and her two children.

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"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 police have urged Tshuma to hand himself him, saying: "We will find you."

Officers believe the 45-year-old suspect travelled to Heathrow and flew from there to Zimbabwe on Saturday.

The Zimbabwean suspect runs his own business called Nexus Trove Holdings from his address in Great Denham, as per Companies House.

He goes by the name of Mark and is a British citizen with Zimbabwean heritage.

The UK and Zimbabwe do not have an extradition agreement, so capturing him for questioning back in Britain could prove difficult for the police.

Nala's school, Pilgrims Pre-Prep described her as a "little ray of sunshine" as they paid tribute to her.

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The school said: "A little ray of sunshine, known for her inquisitive and bubbly nature, her positivity, happiness and her wonderful sense of humour".

Headteacher Jo Webster said: "Many of our staff had known her since she was just seven months old and had the privilege of watching her grow."

Natalie, 15, who went to Bedford Girls' School was described as "dearly loved" and a "talented dancer, musician and keen sportswoman".

Gemma Gibson, headteacher at the school said Natalie's death was a "hugely devastating shock".

She said: "Natalie was fun loving, full of life and had a positive impact on everyone she came into contact with; she will be remembered with warmth and affection."

Assistant Chief Constable John Murphy said: “This is a deeply distressing incident in which a mother and her two children are believed to have been murdered.

“Our thoughts are first and foremost with all those affected.

“We recognise that this will cause concern in the local community and beyond.

“This is the early stages of what is an incredibly complex investigation. We are committing all necessary resources to establish exactly what has happened and to find the person responsible.

“As a result of enquiries undertaken so far, we have identified a suspect, who was known to all three victims, and who we believe has since left the country.

“While there is nothing to suggest there is any wider risk to the public, we will be increasing the police presence in and around the area to support the investigation and provide reassurance to residents."

He called for anyone with any information to come forward and contact police via the webchat service on www.beds.police.uk or call 101 quoting Operation Snowdrift.

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