Illegal immigrant charged with murder of his mother in Bradford

John Makannah, 35, made his first appearance at Bradford Magistrates' Court today, following the incident in the West Bowling area of the city.

The body of his mother, Maria Nuni, 58, was discovered in the snow in the garden of an end-terraced house on Friday. Her son was arrested at the scene.

Today Makannah, from Sierra Leone, was led into the dock at the magistrates' court by three security officers. He stared blankly around the courtroom and did not speak during the five-minute hearing.

His lawyer, Ray Singh, said Makannah had only arrived in the UK last February or March and was an over-stayer in the country. He did not apply for bail.

District Judge Bouch told Makannah that the case had to be heard at the crown court and remanded him in custody.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact West Yorkshire Police on 0845 6060606.