UK murder fugitive Tshuma back in court as NPA pushes extradition

Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma faces extradition proceedings linked to three murder charges in the UK.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) says it is ready to proceed with extradition proceedings against Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, who is wanted in Britain in connection with three murder charges.

Tshuma, 46, appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court on Wednesday in two separate matters, an extradition case at the request of UK authorities and a separate case in which he faces charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.

Both matters were postponed to September to allow Tshuma’s defence team additional time to consult with him.

The extradition matter will return to court on September 8, while the firearm and ammunition case will be heard two days later.

NPA spokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole said there were no outstanding documents preventing the State from proceeding.

“The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is ready to proceed with both matters following the finalisation of the outstanding documentation and reports.”

According to the NPA, British authorities have provided all the documentation required to support the extradition request.

The ballistic report relating to the firearm and ammunition charges has also been finalised, with the State saying all relevant documents have been handed to the defence.

Tshuma was arrested in Kensington, Johannesburg, on July 10, after the SA Police Service, through INTERPOL’s National Central Bureau in Pretoria, received a request from UK authorities to trace and arrest him.

The request followed a warrant issued by the Westminster Magistrate's Court.

The extradition request alleges that Tshuma is wanted in the UK on three counts of murder.

The NPA said he is accused of murdering his wife, Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, and their two children, Natalie Tshuma and Nala Tshuma, in Bedford, Bedfordshire, in early July.

Tshuma had entered South Africa legally through OR Tambo International Airport on July 5, but his immigration status had since changed.