A 22-YEAR-OLD man has appeared in court accused of murdering a Kurdish man in Colchester.

Rakar Rahimi, of no fixed abode, has been charged with murder as part of an ongoing investigation into the death of Bako Azad Sheikha in the Hythe.

Police officers launched the probe after Bako, 23, was fatally injured in Distillery Lane at about 2am on Monday.

Rahimi was arrested later that evening in Dover and remanded in police custody in Grays, Essex.

Gazette: Probe - forensics officers examine the sceneProbe - forensics officers examine the scene (Image: Newsquest)

He appeared at Colchester Magistrates’ Court on Friday where he was told his bail hearing will be heard on Tuesday at Chelmsford Crown Court.

Rahimi was remanded in custody until that date.

Detective Chief Inspector Antony Alcock stated Bako’s family has been informed of his death and are receiving support.

“Our team will continue to work on this case and we’re continuing to appeal to anyone who may have any information to contact us,” he said.

“[This] charge is a significant development in this investigation and I would like to give credit to the investigative team who have been working around the clock on this, as well as the number of witnesses who have assisted with our inquiries.

“We are aware that Bako’s death has had an impact on the Kurdish community and beyond.

“We need anyone who may want to talk to us to get in contact, no matter how small the information may seem.”

Tributes have poured in for Bako, who arrived in the UK as a youngster from Iraq, since the Gazette broke the tragic news of his death.

Gazette: Popular - Bako Azad, left, with brother Zanko - Newsquest / Saman KamalPopular - Bako Azad, left, with brother Zanko - Newsquest / Saman Kamal (Image: Newsquest)

A series of shops operated by those in the Kurdish community remained closed throughout the start of the week in Colchester as a mark of respect to the 23-year-old.

Farhad Mohammad, who runs Queen Street restaurant Arbil, said the young man was a “real smiler” who was liked by everyone he met.

Colchester District Commander Rob Huddleston has stated in light of Bako’s death, extra police officers will be present in the city.

“Over the coming week there will be additional officers brought in to provide some really high visibility patrols so residents who do have concerns, especially those in the area, can be provided reassurance,” he said.