An Afghan migrant accused of killing a Scottish aid worker had been taken in by an American couple who were doing humanitarian work on the Greek island of Lesvos. The couple, who preferred to remain anonymous, had provided shelter to Sharif Ahmadzai, 26, for nearly two years at their home in Moria refugee camp on Lesvos.
Ahmadzai, an Afghan boxer who had lost his parents as a teenager, had been working as a translator for relief groups at the Moria camp when he met the American couple. They developed a close bond, with Ahmadzai considering them as his adoptive parents and referring to them as “mum and dad.” The couple even taught him English and included him in their family activities, including celebrating Christmas.
Despite their close relationship, the couple expressed shock and disbelief upon learning about Ahmadzai’s arrest and the charges against him for the death of Elisabeth-Jane Ross, 38. Ross was found dead in a derelict building in Athens, with Ahmadzai now facing accusations of homicide with intent.
Ahmadzai appeared in court recently, where his lawyer confirmed that he did not enter a plea for the charges against him, including homicide and allegations of stealing money from Ross’ bank accounts. The court ordered Ahmadzai to remain in pre-trial detention until further hearings.
Authorities revealed that Ahmadzai had allegedly sent messages from Ross’ phone to her contacts after her death before impersonating an unnamed jihadist in texts to her friends in Athens. His wife, Alaina Hall, raised suspicions about his whereabouts and actions, leading to the discovery of Ahmadzai’s potential involvement in the crime.
The case has drawn international attention, with investigations ongoing to determine the exact circumstances of Ross’ death and Ahmadzai’s role in the tragic incident. The family of the victim, as well as authorities in both the UK and Greece, are closely monitoring the case and providing support to those affected by the tragedy.