Pre-trial detention has been ordered for Rafael Mursakulov, who stands accused of premeditated murder of Australian citizen Shanae Brooke under aggravating circumstances.

The prosecution was demanding the application of the strictest measure of restraint against Mursakulov, while the defence was demanding that the detainee be released without any measure of restraint at all.

The accused himself also attended the hearing.

Australian citizen Shanae Brooke disappeared on July 30. The body of the young woman was found on Mtatsminda on July 31.

Rafael Mursakulov was detained yesterday. He is charged with the first part of Article 179 of the Criminal Code of Georgia (robbery) and Article 109 (premeditated murder in aggravating circumstances) which provides a sentence of 16 to 20 years or life imprisonment”, - reads the statement.