The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) says two people have been charged with first degree murder in relation to the death of Burnaby, B.C., man Masood Masjoody.

Forty-eight-year-old Mehdi Ahmadzadeh Razavi of Maple Ridge and 45-year-old Arezou Soltani of North Vancouver were arrested Friday.

The B.C. Prosecution Service has approved one count of first-degree murder each against the pair.

The charges come after Masjoody’s remains were found in Mission just over a week ago, on March 6, police say.

“We understand this case has impacted the Iranian community and has generated widespread concern and public interest,” said Sgt. Freda Fong with IHIT in a release. 

“While the motive is still under investigation, we can say the victim and two accused were known to each other,” she said. 

The 45-year-old has been missing since Feb. 2, when Burnaby RCMP launched an investigation after reports from concerned neighbours. 

At the time, RCMP said they believe Masjoody’s disappearance was out of character, and criminality was involved. 

IHIT took over the case after it was determined to be a homicide.