Zimbabwean professional Nothabo Zandile Tshuma was reportedly preparing to end her marriage and begin a new life with her two daughters before she and the chil...
Zimbabwean professional Nothabo Zandile Tshuma was reportedly preparing to end her marriage and begin a new life with her two daughters before she and the children were found dead at their home in Bedford, England, according to friends of the family.
Friends alleged that the 42-year-old had started divorce proceedings with her husband, Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, 45. They also claimed that the couple had recently arranged for their £1.3 million family home to be valued for sale as part of plans to separate.
According to those close to the family, Zandile had decided to move on with her daughters, Natalie, 15, and Nala, five. One friend alleged that she had “had enough” of the marriage and wanted to begin a new chapter in her life with her children.
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Friends further claimed that the marriage had deteriorated because of alleged infidelity and controlling behaviour. They alleged that Zandile had discovered her husband’s alleged relationships with women in the United Kingdom, South Africa and Zimbabwe.
According to the same accounts, Zandile had forgiven him on previous occasions but eventually concluded that the marriage could not continue. Friends claimed she believed separating was in her own best interests and those of her daughters.
Some friends also alleged that Tshuma had previously told Zandile, “If I can’t have you, nobody will.” These claims have not been confirmed by police and remain allegations made by people who knew the family.
Friends further alleged that Zandile had become increasingly isolated during the marriage because of what they described as controlling behaviour. They claimed she faced restrictions on her friendships and contact with relatives. These allegations have not been tested in court.
Bedfordshire Police have identified Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma as the man they are seeking in connection with the deaths of Nothabo and her two daughters. Police said he left the United Kingdom through Heathrow Airport on Saturday and is believed to have travelled to Zimbabwe before the bodies were discovered.
The police force has appealed directly to Tshuma to surrender and said it is working with national and international law enforcement agencies to locate him. Investigations into the deaths remain ongoing.
At this stage, Tshuma has not been charged in connection with the deaths, and all allegations relating to the couple’s marriage remain unproven unless and until they are established through the legal process. Authorities have urged anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact Bedfordshire Police.
