Syrian man charged with West Hoe murder

A 36-year-old suspect has been charged with the murder of a man whose body was found in the Hoe area.

Mohamed Abotaka, of Grand Parade, is now due to appear in court accused of the murder of 52 -year-old Ali Barzai.

Mr Barzai was found partially within a wheelie bin in a service lane off Grand Parade at around 6.40am on Wednesday 21 October. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Mr Barzai is believed to be of North African heritage and enquiries are ongoing to locate his next-of-kin. 

Abotaka, who is believed to be from Syria, remains in police custody and is due to appear before Plymouth Magistrates’ Court on Monday 26 October.  

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 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.