Online Reporter
JOHANNESBURG. – The coast appears to have been cleared for Ndodana Tshuma to be deported to the UK to face triple murder charges after he pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm with ammunition yesterday.
He also pleaded guilty for entering South Africa while being a wanted fugitive in the UK.
The National Prosecuting Authority confirmed on Monday that it was ready to proceed with both matters against Tshuma after receiving the outstanding documentation from UK authorities and finalising the ballistic report relating to the firearm and ammunition.
According to the NPA, the request followed the issuing of a warrant of arrest by the Westminster Magistrates’ Court. British authorities are seeking his extradition to face three counts of murder.
The extradition matter and the South African firearm case are being dealt with separately.
Tshuma, a 45-year-old British citizen of Zimbabwean heritage, is wanted by Bedfordshire police in connection with the murders of his wife Zandile, 42, and their daughters, Natalie, 15, and Nala, 5.
They were buried in Bulawayo last month.
After fleeing the UK on July 4, Tshuma was arrested by SA police in Kensington, Johannesburg, on July 10.
He was allegedly found in possession of an unlicensed 9mm handgun.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said Tshuma initially entered South Africa legally through OR Tambo International Airport on July 5, but his immigration status subsequently changed as a result of his fugitive status.
“In terms of the Immigration Act, he is regarded as both a prohibited and undesirable person and is therefore considered to be in the republic illegally,” said NPA spokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole.
Tshuma appeared under heavy police guard at the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
British authorities authorised three murder charges against Tshuma.
He had already left the UK by the time the bodies were discovered. Reports said he travelled from London Heathrow Airport before eventually arriving in South Africa on 5 July. – Agencies
