Mohamed Abotaka, 36, who is believed to be from Syria, has been remanded in custody after appearing at Plymouth Magistrates’ Court, where he is accused of murdering Ali Barzai.
Abotaka confirmed his personal details in court. No plea was entered.
Prosecutor Elaine Kale outlined the injuries Mr Barzai had suffered, including more than 20 knife wounds, strangulation with a ligature and blunt force injuries to his head and face. She also told the court that efforts to resuscitate him had failed.
The court heard that police identified Abotaka after carrying out enquiries and forensic work.
Mr Barzai was found partially inside a wheelie bin in a service lane off Grand Parade at about 6.40am on Wednesday, 21 October.
A bail application is due to be heard by video link at Plymouth Crown Court on Tuesday, 27 October. Abotaka was remanded in custody, with a plea and trial preparation hearing listed for 23 November.
Photographs © Wayne Perry / Plymouth Post