Man appears in court after body found in bin

A 36-year-old man has appeared in court charged with murdering a man whose body was found partially in a wheelie bin

Mohamed Abotaka, of Grand Parade, Plymouth, Devon, appeared via a video link from HMP Bristol, accused of murdering Ali Barzai between 20 October and 21 October.

Barzai, 52, was found in a service lane off Grand Parade, in the West Hoe area of the city, on 21 October.

Abotaka's barrister Ali Rafati did not apply for bail and the defendant was remanded in custody. He is due to next appear in court on 24 November for a plea and trial preparation hearing.

Judge Robert Linford said there was an ongoing investigation, adding nothing should be said or commented on would prejudice that inquiry.

A court hearing on Monday heard Barzai died from a large number of stab wounds, as well as ligature strangulation and blunt force trauma to his face and head.

The case continues.

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