Tributes paid to mother and children found dead at home in Bedfordshire

Relatives describe ‘unimaginable loss’ as police seek father who is suspected of killing them before fleeing to Zimbabwe

Tributes have been paid to three members of the same family who were found dead in their home in Bedfordshire on Monday. Nothabo Zandile Tshuma and her daughters Natalie, 15, and Nala, five, were described as much-loved members of their community who brought joy to those around them.

An international manhunt is under way for their husband and father, 45-year-old Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, who is suspected of killing them before leaving the UK for Zimbabwe.

Relatives described the deaths of Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, 42, who was known as Zandile, and her daughters as an “unimaginable loss”, adding: “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.”

In a statement released on their behalf by Bedfordshire police, they said: “The Khumalo family sincerely appreciates the continued love, prayers and support shown by family, friends and the wider community.”

The force has issued a CCTV image of Ndodana Mkhanyisi 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. Officers were called two days later to a home in Great Denham after concerns were raised for the welfare of his wife and daughters after it was noted they had not been seen for some time.

He is now believed to be in Zimbabwe, which is not among the UK’s extradition treaty partners.

On Thursday, Nala’s headteacher, Jo Webster, said she was a “much-loved member of our school community” who “brought joy to those around her every day”.

She 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 preschool 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.”

The headteacher of Bedford girls’ school said Natalie was a “bright and accomplished year 10 student” who was “dearly loved by everyone”. Gemma Gibson said: “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.”

Zandile’s employer, Forensic Risk Alliance (FRA), said her colleagues were “heartbroken” by her death.

“Zandile was a much-loved and valued member of our team. As a consummate professional, she possessed a rare talent for combining a sharp intelligence and passion for her work with true warmth, gentleness and kindness. She will be deeply missed by all of us. This is an incredibly painful time for everyone who knew and worked with her.”