Afghan Boxer Faces Court Over Discovery of Body in Athens Suitcase

Police identified Ross, a Scottish psychotherapist and volunteer, as having been missing since July 15. Her remains were discovered three days later, wrapped in fabric inside a green suitcase. While decomposition hindered a definitive autopsy, investigators have not ruled out asphyxiation. The suspect, whose identity remains protected under Greek law, denies murdering Ross. He claims he discovered her body in an apartment bathroom and, in a state of panic, attempted to dispose of the remains. Prosecutors rely on CCTV footage allegedly showing the man transporting a suitcase near the crime scene on July 16, alongside mobile phone tracking data and statements from his 28-year-old American wife.

Beyond the manslaughter charge, the suspect faces counts of illegal possession of a weapon after police recovered a knife and a replica pistol from his residence. Authorities also allege the man used Ross’s bank card to withdraw funds and sent messages from her phone to feign her survival. The suspect, who arrived in Greece as an asylum seeker, was granted a 24-hour extension by the court to prepare his defense. A ruling on whether he will remain in custody pending trial is expected Thursday.