An American couple who provided shelter to Afghan migrant Sharif Ahmadzai for nearly two years on the Greek island of Lesvos expressed shock and disbelief after learning about his arrest in connection with the death of Scottish aid worker Elisabeth-Jane Ross. The couple, who preferred to remain anonymous, had taken Ahmadzai in while doing humanitarian work at the Moria refugee camp.
Ahmadzai, a former Afghan boxer, had been living in the Moria camp as a translator for relief organizations when he crossed paths with 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 included him in their family activities and celebrations, such as Christmas.
The couple last saw Ahmadzai during a visit to Europe in 2019, according to reports. They expressed deep sorrow and disbelief over the charges he is facing, emphasizing that they never noticed any warning signs of his alleged involvement in such a crime.
During a recent court appearance, Ahmadzai did not enter a plea for the charges against him, which include homicide with intent and theft of funds from Ross’ bank accounts. His lawyer mentioned the need for additional medical evidence before Ahmadzai could respond to the accusations.
Authorities have detained Ahmadzai pending further legal proceedings, with the court situated near the location where Ross’s body was discovered. The investigation revealed that Ahmadzai allegedly sent misleading messages from Ross’s phone after her death, implicating an unrelated motive for the crime.
Ms. Ross, a dedicated humanitarian worker, is remembered by her family as a compassionate and principled individual who dedicated her life to assisting those in need. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Police Scotland are actively involved in coordinating with Greek authorities on the case, offering support to Ross’s family during this difficult time.