THE man whose body was found in a wheelie bin in Plymouth had been stabbed more than 20 times, it’s emerged, as a man appeared in court charged with murder.

Mohamed Abotaka, 36, of Grand Parade, Plymouth, is accused of the murder of 52 -year-old Ali Barzai.

Mr Barzai’s body was found partially within a wheelie bin in a service lane off Grand Parade at around 6.40am on Wednesday, October 21.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Mr Barzai, who is believed to be of North African heritage and enquiries are ongoing to locate his next-of-kin, suffered more than 20 stab wounds, strangulation by ligature, and had been severely beaten to his face and head.

At Plymouth Magistrates Court in a five-minute hearing, Abotaka, wearing a grey tracksuit, spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, and address.

Earlier, Detective Inspector Chris Lithgow said: “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.”

Abotaka, who is believed to be from Syria, was remanded into custody and will face a bail hearing tomorrow at Plymouth Crown Court, which he will attend by video link.

A provisional date for a full plea hearing has been reserved for the end of November.

Any relevant information, images or footage can be reported 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.