Suspect believed to be from Syria is charged with murder after body of 52-year-old man was found in wheelie bin

A man believed to be from Syria has been charged with murder after a 52-year-old man's body was found in a wheelie bin.

Mohamed Abotaka was arrested after the body of Ali Barzai was found in a wheelie bin in West Hoe, Plymouth, at around 6.40am on Wednesday.

Emergency services rushed to the scene but Mr Barzai, who is believed to be of North African heritage, was pronounced dead.

The 36-year-old suspect now remains in police custody ahead of his hearing at Plymouth Magistrates' Court on Monday. 

Following the body's discovery, nearby roads were cordoned off by Devon and Cornwall Police while forensic examinations and searches were carried out.

House-to-house enquiries were also conducted by officers in the surrounding area while a heavy police presence remained in place.

Members of the public who may have seen something have been urged to come forward and provide any information to the police. 

Detective Inspector Chris Lithgow said: 'A suspect is due to appear in court charged with murder and we would urge people not to speculate on this case, especially on social media, and risk prejudicing these ongoing proceedings.

'A heightened police presence will remain in the area in the coming days.

'We understand this incident has caused concern within the local community, and I would encourage any members of the public with concerns to contact us.'

Any relevant information, images or footage can be reported to police via the Major Incident Public Portal or by telephone on 101 and the force website, quoting reference 50260282293.

Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers via crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555111.

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