Ndodana Tshuma says he does not recall signing guilty plea deal in South African court

The immigration case against a British citizen wanted in the United Kingdom in connection with a triple murder has been postponed after he told the court he does not recall signing a plea and sentencing agreement.

Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, 45, also known as Mark, appeared at the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, where he was expected to finalise a plea deal on charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition and contravening the Immigration Act.

The defence informed the court it could not proceed because Tshuma said he did not remember signing the agreement, which had been negotiated over several weeks.

Tshuma, a British citizen of Zimbabwean heritage, is wanted by Bedfordshire Police in connection with the murders of his wife, Zandile, 42, and their two daughters, Natalie, 15, and Nala, five, at their home in the UK.

He allegedly fled the UK on 4 July and was arrested by South African police in Kensington, Johannesburg, on 10 July. He was allegedly found in possession of an unlicensed 9mm firearm. He entered South Africa while being sought by the UK authorities.

In addition to the immigration and firearm charges, Tshuma is facing extradition proceedings to the UK over the three murders.

He had pleaded guilty to the immigration and firearm matters, but on Wednesday told the court he did not remember doing so and maintains that he is innocent.

His lawyer, Chrispin Machingura, told the court that when shown the signed document, Tshuma said he could not recall signing it.

Machingura said his client had also complained about not sleeping properly and was unable to provide clear instructions, suggesting the need for a medical evaluation.

The defence said it required clarity on whether Tshuma acknowledged the agreement.

The matter was postponed to 29 October for further consultation between the lawyer and his client. Once the immigration matter is finalised, the court is expected to deal with the extradition request.