Female body found in suitcase in Agios Panteleimonas – investigation into criminal activity
The body of a woman of African origin, aged 17–25, was found in a suitcase in Agios Panteleimonas with bound feet. The cause of death is being investigated by the Homicide Division.
Body found in suitcase in Agios Panteleimonas – cause of death unclear
A human body in an advanced state of decomposition was discovered inside a suitcase on Alkamenos Street, at its intersection with Charisis Street in Agios Panteleimonas. According to To Vima, a foreigner born in 1997 reported to the local police station that a strong odour was coming from a suitcase at the location.
Officers rushed to the area and upon inspecting the object found themselves confronted with a body in an exceptionally advanced stage of decomposition. The body had been wrapped in a black plastic bag before being placed inside the suitcase.
Findings of the initial forensic assessment
On the basis of the initial forensic assessment, the body apparently belonged to a woman aged 17 to 25 years, of African origin and small build. Her death was estimated to have occurred approximately five to seven days before she was found.
The macroscopic examination did not reveal apparent injuries to the body; however, this is not in itself sufficient for determining the cause of death. According to reports, the woman's feet appear to have been bound with rope, while the body was found in a foetal position inside the suitcase.
Lines of enquiry being pursued by police
The authorities are investigating different scenarios regarding the cause of death, among which criminal activity and substance use. The exact causes are expected to be determined by the autopsy that is to be carried out.
The Homicide Division took over the case and officers are attempting to reconstruct the woman's final days. "Answers to the case are now being sought through the investigation by the Homicide Division. Officers are attempting to reconstruct the woman's final days and to determine how she was found dead inside the suitcase, as well as who is responsible for transporting and abandoning her at the specific location," To Vima reports.
Investigation in the area – search for witnesses and camera footage
The police are collecting material from security cameras in the area and seeking witness statements that could lead to identifying the person or persons who abandoned the suitcase on Alkamenos Street. The investigation is ongoing, while the woman's identity remains unconfirmed.
Parallels with the Kypseli case
The police authorities are examining similarities between the current case and that of a woman who was also found dead inside a suitcase in the Kypseli area last summer. Whether there is a connection between the two cases has not yet been confirmed by the authorities.
Source: To Vima