UK murder suspect pleads guilty to gun charges in South Africa

A man sought by British authorities over the deaths of his wife and two daughters has pleaded guilty to firearms and immigration charges in South Africa, where he was arrested in July while evading capture.

Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma entered the pleas on Tuesday as part of an agreement with South African prosecutors. He admitted to the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as an immigration violation for entering the country as a fugitive.

South African officials have indicated they will proceed with extradition proceedings against Tshuma once his local case is resolved. Prosecutors in the United Kingdom have said they intend to charge him with three counts of murder.

The bodies of Tshuma's wife, Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, and their daughters, 15-year-old Natalie and 5-year-old Nala, were discovered on July 6 at their home near Bedford, north of London. All three had sustained head injuries.

British police believe Tshuma left the UK on July 4, traveling first to Zimbabwe and then to South Africa, before the bodies were found. He was taken into custody in Johannesburg on July 10, following an Interpol notice for his apprehension. At the time of his arrest, he was found in possession of a gun and ammunition.

South African police have stated they suspect Tshuma may have intended to use the weapon to take his own life.