Greek authorities have arrested a man suspected of murdering a British charity worker in Athens. Elisabeth-Jane Ross, 38, of Edinburgh, was reported missing and her body was discovered on July 18 inside a suitcase in an abandoned building, three days after she disappeared.
The primary suspect, Sharif Ahmadzai, 26, an Afghan migrant and amateur boxer, has been detained on charges of murder and robbery. Ahmadzai is reported to have known Ross through their mutual involvement with a refugee charity, where Ross was volunteering. The flat where Ross was staying was provided by the charity group linked to Ahmadzai and his wife, who holds U.S. citizenship. This connection gave Ahmadzai access to the apartment, as he had a key.
According to Greek police, Ahmadzai’s wife, Alaina, played a role in implicating him by revealing that a tracking application on his phone placed him at Ross’s apartment on the night of her disappearance. Greek authorities believe a confrontation may have occurred, possibly related to a rejected romantic advance.
Ahmadzai reportedly acknowledged finding Ross dead and admitted to disposing of her body and using her credit card afterward. However, Athens police union head and former officer George Kalliakmanis questioned Ahmadzai’s exact purpose for being at the apartment, suggesting there may have been a motive linked to personal rejection.
One source familiar with the investigation indicated there is evidence to suggest Ahmadzai may have had feelings for Ross, though the specifics remain under investigation. Ahmadzai is expected to appear in court shortly to face charges, as the case continues to draw attention to the circumstances leading to Ross’s death and the dynamics of their relationship. Authorities are continuing to gather evidence to clarify the events on the night Ross was last seen alive.
