Tinotenda Hove- A 42-year-old Zimbabwean professional was making preparations to separate from her husband and build a new life with her two daughters before all three were found dead at their home in Bedford, England, according to people close to the family.

Nothabo Zandile Tshuma and her husband Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, 45, had reportedly started divorce proceedings. Friends told local media the couple had also had their £1.3 million family home valued in recent weeks as part of the separation process.

Those close to Zandile said she had decided she wanted a fresh start for herself and her daughters, Natalie, 15, and Nala, 5. One friend said she felt she “had had enough,” while another alleged the marriage had broken down amid claims of infidelity and controlling conduct.

Sources also alleged that Ndodana had once told Zandile: “If I can’t have you, nobody will.” Friends further claimed Zandile had uncovered alleged affairs involving women in the UK, South Africa and Zimbabwe. They said she had forgiven him before, but this time chose to walk away for the sake of herself and her children.

According to those accounts, she also felt cut off from support networks due to what was described as restrictive behaviour that limited her contact with friends and relatives.

Bedfordshire Police have identified Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma as the man they want to speak to over the deaths. Investigators say he departed the UK from Heathrow Airport on Saturday and is believed to have flown to Zimbabwe prior to the bodies being discovered.

Police have issued a public appeal for Tshuma to hand himself in and confirmed they are coordinating with both domestic and international authorities to trace him.

The inquiry is still underway. No charges have been filed and police stress that all claims about the couple’s relationship are allegations at this stage and remain untested in court.