Note: Story amended to show correct court dates.

A 30-year-old man appeared in the Belfast Magistrate Court last Thursday, facing charges of murder and the possession of an unlicensed firearm.

The suspect, Bhekumuzi Joe Soko (30), was arrested following a shooting that occurred on Saturday, August 23, when police were alerted by hospital personnel about a 24-year-old male who had sustained a gunshot wound to the head.

The victim, who was brought in from Siyathuthuka in Belfast, was declared dead on arrival.

Initial information provided by the suspect was misleading.

However, through further investigation and witness statements, it was revealed Soko had been socializing with a group of friends, including the deceased at his residence, on the day of the shooting.

The Soko was allegedly handling a firearm when a shot was discharged, striking the victim in the head.

The victim was rushed to hospital but could not be saved.

The firearm believed to have been used in the shooting was recovered where it was allegedly hidden in a nearby field.

Soko will appear in court on September 1 for a formal bail application.