Cyprus Police have denied reports that they are assisting Greek authorities in the investigation into the death of a 38-year-old British woman whose body was found inside a suitcase in Athens, while new details suggest her mobile phone was used after her death to send messages to relatives and friends.
No request made to Cyprus Police
Despite reports in the international media suggesting cooperation between Greek and Cypriot authorities, Cyprus Police said no request for assistance has been received.
A police spokesman told Politis that Cypriot authorities are aware of the case through media reports but have not been asked to participate in the investigation.
Questions over victim's travel route
Conflicting reports have emerged regarding the victim's journey to Greece.
The Daily Mail reported that the woman travelled from the United States to Europe via Cyprus before arriving in Athens.
However, according to information cited by Protothema, she arrived in Greece on a flight from Edinburgh, not Cyprus, and had been staying at a friend's home.
Greek police have reportedly requested passenger information from the airline involved to determine whether she travelled with another person.
Messages allegedly sent after death
The case has attracted international attention following claims that the victim's mobile phone continued to be used after her death.
According to reports, text messages were sent from the device to relatives and acquaintances in an apparent attempt to create the impression that she was still alive.
One message reportedly stated that she needed time for herself and wished to be alone for a period.
Greek investigators are examining the device's electronic data and trying to identify the person or persons who may have used the phone after her death.
Last seen on 15 July
The woman, identified by the initials E.R. and originally from Scotland, was reportedly last seen alive on 15 July.
Her body was discovered several days later by a homeless man who alerted authorities after noticing a suitcase with what appeared to be a human limb protruding from it.
Toxicology results awaited
Initial forensic examinations reportedly found no obvious injuries or signs of a struggle.
Investigators are awaiting the results of toxicology tests to determine the exact cause of death.
The victim carried no identification documents. After fingerprints failed to produce a match in Greek databases, she was ultimately identified through US records and Interpol.
Key clue led to identification
The woman was described as being approximately 1.63 metres tall, with reddish hair tied in a bun, and wearing black shorts and a T-shirt.
Investigators said the name of a French university printed on her shorts helped generate international inquiries that contributed to her identification.
Greek homicide detectives continue to examine her movements, accommodation records and contacts as they seek to establish the circumstances surrounding her death.
