Greek police have arrested a 26-year-old foreigner over the death of a Scottish woman whose body was found in a suitcase in Athens. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing The Guardian.
A replica pistol and a knife were found at the suspect's home, and police have filed a case against him for manslaughter, robbery and violation of weapons laws.
The body of Elisabeth-Jane Ross, 38, was discovered inside a suitcase by a homeless man in a derelict building in the Kypseli area of Athens on 18 July. She is believed to have died between five and seven days before she was found, though someone was reportedly using her mobile phone to send messages purporting to be from Ross. The Hellenic police, Greece's national force, identified Ross using fingerprints.
Ross, who is understood to be from Edinburgh, entered Greece on 26 June and initially stayed with friends in Piraeus. She is said to have then gone to meet American friends in another part of the Greek capital but it is unclear if this ever happened.
Police said they analysed video footage to identify the suspect, who they said confessed on Thursday. The man is believed to have put Ross's body into the suitcase and taken it to the site where it was found. In the following days he is said to have used her bank card to withdraw money.
The UK Foreign Office previously said: "Our thoughts are with Elisabeth's family during this difficult time. We are providing consular support and are in contact with the local authorities."
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "We are aware of the death of a Scottish woman in Athens and are liaising with authorities in Greece. Officers are providing support to her family in Scotland."
Investigation details
Greek police analysed video footage to identify the suspect. Among the items found at his home were a replica pistol and a knife. These items have been included in the case file.
According to police, the suspect placed Ross's body in a suitcase and left it at the location. He also used her bank card to withdraw money on several occasions. These actions are among the key evidence of his guilt.
Victim's background
Elisabeth-Jane Ross was from Edinburgh. She had come to Greece on holiday. She initially stayed with friends in Piraeus. She then planned to meet American friends in another part of Athens, but it is unclear if this meeting took place.
Her body was found on 18 July in a derelict building in the Kypseli area. The case has caused a stir in Greece. Local authorities are conducting an investigation to determine the circumstances.
International response
The UK Foreign Office and Police Scotland have issued official statements regarding the incident. They expressed condolences to the family and promised to provide necessary support.
Greek police are continuing their investigation. The suspect's case has been referred to court. He faces charges of manslaughter, robbery and violation of weapons laws.