UK Fugitive Pleads Guilty to Gun Charges in South Africa After Family Killings

JOHANNESBURG — A man sought by British police in connection with the deaths of his wife and two daughters entered guilty pleas Tuesday in a South African court on firearms and immigration charges, following his arrest there while on the run. Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma admitted to illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition as part of a plea agreement, according to South African prosecutors. He also admitted to an immigration violation for entering South Africa while he was a fugitive from justice. South African authorities have indicated they will pursue extradition proceedings to send Tshuma back to the United Kingdom once his case in South Africa is resolved. British prosecutors have said he will face three counts of murder upon his return. His wife, Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, along with their daughters Natalie, 15, and Nala, 5, were discovered dead inside their home near the town of Bedford, north of London, on July 6. All three had sustained head injuries. According to British police, Tshuma is believed to have departed the U.K. on July 4, traveling first to Zimbabwe before making his way to South Africa — all before the bodies were found. Tshuma, described as a British citizen of Zimbabwean heritage, was taken into custody in Johannesburg on July 10. He was found with a firearm and ammunition after Interpol issued a notice calling for his apprehension. South African police have stated they believe Tshuma may have intended to use the weapon to take his own life.