Greek police have arrested a 26-year-old migrant in connection with the death of a Scottish woman whose body was discovered inside a suitcase abandoned in a derelict building in Athens last month.
The suspect, who Greek authorities officially identified only as a foreign national, is reported by local media to be an Afghan citizen. He was taken into custody after investigators linked him to the death of 36-year-old Elisabeth-Jane Ross, a Scottish humanitarian worker whose body was found on July 18 by a homeless man inside an abandoned building in the Greek capital.
Police believe Ross had been dead for between five and seven days before her body was discovered. Due to the advanced state of decomposition, authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of death, with forensic examinations still ongoing.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Greek police said investigators believe the suspect placed Ross’ body inside a suitcase before transporting and abandoning it at the deserted property. Authorities also allege that he used the victim’s bank cards to withdraw money after her death.
During a search of the suspect’s residence, officers reportedly recovered a replica firearm and a knife, both of which were seized as evidence. The man is facing allegations including manslaughter, robbery and violations of Greece’s weapons laws. The investigation remains ongoing, and prosecutors are expected to determine whether additional charges will be filed once forensic findings are completed.
Ross was widely described in British media as a dedicated humanitarian who frequently travelled to Greece and other countries to support charitable causes and vulnerable communities. She reportedly arrived in Greece in late June and initially stayed with friends before moving into rented accommodation on July 10. According to reports, she had informed friends that she planned to meet them again in the middle of July but was never heard from afterward.
Investigators believe efforts were made to conceal Ross’ death by sending text messages from her mobile phone after she had already died. Greek media, citing police sources, reported that messages were sent to her father in Edinburgh claiming that she needed time alone and wished to distance herself from others, creating the impression that she was still alive.
Police suspect the messages were deliberately sent to delay any missing person investigation. One source familiar with the inquiry reportedly said it was evident that whoever sent the messages was attempting to buy time before the disappearance attracted attention.
Despite the condition of the body, forensic specialists were able to recover fingerprints, allowing investigators to confirm Ross’ identity with assistance from Interpol and cooperation from police authorities in the United Kingdom and Scotland.
Police Scotland confirmed that it is assisting Greek authorities with the investigation and continues to provide support to Ross’ family in Scotland while inquiries into the circumstances surrounding her death continue.
Greek authorities have not announced a motive for the alleged crime, and investigations remain ongoing as forensic experts work to establish the precise cause of death.