Ndodana Tshuma 'does not recall' signing plea agreement

Alleged UK fugitive Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma has told his lawyer that he cannot remember signing a plea and sentencing agreement, forcing proceedings at the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court to stall.

Tshuma appeared in court on Wednesday, where his lawyer, Chrispin Machingura, told the court that the defence could not proceed because his client was unable to confirm whether he had signed the agreement, which had been negotiated over several weeks.

The 45-year-old British citizen of Zimbabwean heritage, also known as Mark, had pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as contravening the Immigration Act by entering South Africa while allegedly wanted in the United Kingdom.

Machingura also informed the court that Tshuma had complained of sleeping difficulties and was struggling to provide clear instructions to his legal team, raising the possibility that he might require a medical evaluation.

The defence said it needed clarity from Tshuma on whether he acknowledged the agreement before the proceedings could continue.

Tshuma is wanted by Bedfordshire Police in connection with the murders of his wife, Zandile, 42, and their two daughters, Natalie, 15, and Nala, five.

He allegedly fled the UK on July 4 before being arrested by South African police in Kensington, Johannesburg, on July 10. He was reportedly found in possession of an unlicensed 9mm firearm.

He is also facing extradition proceedings following a request by British authorities over the triple murder allegations.

The matter has been postponed to October 29 to allow Machingura to obtain further instructions from his client.