A 39 year old motor mechanic of Tavua appeared in the Lautoka Magistrates Court today charged with the alleged murder of 24 year old van driver.

The driver of Tomuka was found dead early yesterday morning in a cassava patch at around 12.40am.

He had stab wounds on his chest and his van was found close to the scene.

Mohammad Faiyaz Saheb alias Babu appeared in the Lautoka Court and has been remanded in custody till 30th September.

His plea has been deferred till Tuesday.