Greek police investigating the death of a Scottish woman whose body was found in a suitcase in Athens are trying to trace “American friends” she had planned to meet.

Elisabeth-Jane Ross was found in an abandoned building in the Kypseli district of the city on 18 July, reportedly by a homeless man.

The 38-year-old, known to her family as Lisa, is thought to have travelled to Greece from Edinburgh in late June, and went missing on 15 July.

Her mobile phone was transmitting a signal and sending some messages a few days after her death.

Lisa had initially stayed in the area of Keratsini, 5.9 miles (9.5km) west of central Athens, with Greek friends.

She had told them that on 15 July she would go to Kypseli, where her “American friends” or acquaintances were.

Police sources said officers were looking to identify these individuals.

On Thursday, a spokesperson for Greek police told the BBC they were awaiting the outcome of the toxicology tests to determine the cause of death and ascertain whether foul play was involved.

A post-mortem examination is under way, with police saying they cannot yet confirm whether her death is considered murder.

On Wednesday, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) confirmed they were providing consular support and were in contact with the Greek authorities.

First Minister John Swinney called it an “absolutely appalling case”, and said her family would be supported by the Scottish government and the FCDO.