Police in South Africa say they have arrested a man on suspicion of murdering his wife and two daughters near Bedford.
Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, 42, and Natalie, 15, and Nala, five, were found dead at the family home in Great Denham on Monday.
Zimbabwean national Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma had left the country via Heathrow Airport on a British passport two days earlier.
But earlier, the 45-year-old was arrested in Kensington, Johannesburg, and the Crown Prosecution Service in the UK says it has since authorised charges against him.
South African police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said the arrest served as a “stern warning” that the country was not a “hide-out” for any suspected criminals.
“We will trace you, we will find you and we will arrest you,” she said, speaking to reporters.
The suspect was due to appear in court on Monday, Mathe said, adding that the “necessary legal and extradition process” would take place alongside UK authorities.
Det Insp Lee Martin, of Bedfordshire Police, said: “This has been a fast-moving investigation which has involved multiple law enforcement partners, including the National Crime Agency, Interpol and authorities in both Zimbabwe and South Africa.
“Thanks to the tireless work and dedication of all those involved, we have managed to swiftly locate and arrest Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma.”
