Greek police probe 'foul play' in death of woman found in suitcase
Elisabeth-Jane Ross's body was found in an abandoned building in the Kypseli district in Athens on 18 July.
Greek authorities are investigating the death of a Scottish woman whose remains were discovered inside a suitcase, with police seeking to determine if foul play was involved.
Elisabeth-Jane Ross, 38, was found on July 18 in a disused building in Athens' Kypseli district, reportedly by a homeless individual. It is believed she died five to seven days prior to her discovery and had arrived in Greece from Cyprus approximately two weeks before her death.
A spokesperson for Greek police informed the BBC, "We are awaiting the results of the toxicology tests to determine the cause of death and ascertain whether foul play was involved, as this was not clarified by the initial examination of the body."
First Minister John Swinney stated that the Scottish government and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office would provide support to Ross's family. He commented, "This is an absolutely appalling case that has been reported overnight. And obviously I'm deeply concerned that such a tragedy has taken place."
Helena Smith, The Guardian's Athens correspondent, told BBC Radio Scotland that the body was located in a derelict structure in central Athens, within "an area that is booming, full of Airbnbs." She noted its popularity among travelers and young foreigners residing in the Greek capital. Smith added that Ross had family in Edinburgh and "connections" to Greece, having stayed with a friend in Athens before her disappearance. She also mentioned, "It would seem that someone had control over her mobile phone after she died and was sending messages to distract the authorities and close friends from trying to track her down."
On Wednesday, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) confirmed they are offering consular assistance and are in communication with Greek authorities.
A Police Scotland spokesperson stated, "We are aware of the death of Scottish woman in Athens and are liaising with authorities in Greece. Officers are providing support to her family in Scotland."
Interpol declined to comment on specific cases.