The family of a British woman discovered deceased in a suitcase expressed their profound sorrow after the prime suspect in her murder appeared in court. Elisabeth-Jane Ross, also known as Lisa, was found by a homeless individual in an abandoned building in Athens days after she was reported missing. The 38-year-old was in Greece for charity work as a Christian aid worker. Sharif Ahmadzai, a 26-year-old Afghan boxer, faced charges of robbery, weapons offenses, and homicide during the court appearance.

In their first public statement following their daughter’s tragic passing, Lisa’s family described her as compassionate, principled, and dedicated to helping those in need. They requested privacy to cope with their loss. Ahmadzai, who denies the murder allegation, allegedly claimed he found Lisa already deceased and did not enter a plea during the hearing. He was detained on illegal weapons possession and homicide charges.

Ahmadzai reportedly met Lisa through his wife, Alaina Hall, with whom he operates a charity called Love Every Nation. Hall suspected her husband’s involvement in the murder and alerted the authorities. Police apprehended Ahmadzai after reviewing CCTV footage near the crime scene. The accused allegedly sent messages from Lisa’s phone to deceive her contacts before acquiring a new phone to impersonate a jihadist claiming responsibility for the murder. Officials identified Lisa using fingerprints at the site in Athens.

Tributes, including floral arrangements and cards, were placed near the building where Lisa was discovered. Foreign and Scottish authorities expressed condolences and offered support to Lisa’s family during this challenging period. Police Scotland confirmed their awareness of the incident and collaboration with Greek authorities to assist the family in Scotland.