Bangladeshi Man Sentenced to Life for Murder of Polish Tourist Anastasia Rubinska in Greece

A Greek court has sentenced Salahuddin S., a Bangladeshi national, to life imprisonment for the murder of 27-year-old Polish tourist Anastasia Rubinska. The verdict, delivered on December 6, 2024, concludes a harrowing case that began with Rubinska's disappearance in June 2023 from the Greek island of Kos. Salahuddin S. was found guilty of kidnapping and "manslaughter with intent," with additional charges of rape also brought against him.

Anastasia Rubinska, originally from Wrocław, Poland, was working at a hotel in Marmari, Kos, when she went missing on June 12, 2023. Her body was discovered six days later, on June 18, concealed in a plastic bag beneath a tree in a salt marsh near the suspect's residence. Autopsy results indicated she had been strangled, and evidence suggested sexual assault.

Salahuddin S., 32, was identified as the primary suspect after surveillance footage showed him as the last person seen with Rubinska. Authorities collected crucial evidence, including Rubinska's DNA and hair found in his room, scratch marks on his body, and a plane ticket to Italy purchased the day after her disappearance. His internet search history also revealed queries about how to hide a body and erase fingerprints.

The case garnered significant international attention due to its brutal nature and the circumstances surrounding Rubinska's life. Fatima Khan, the author of a widely circulated tweet, highlighted the victim's background, stating, "Anastasia's financial situation was not good and she came to Greece from Poland just to work in a hotel. Her aim was to support her family." The tweet also controversially added, "But she was a victim of illegal immigration."

During the trial, prosecutors presented a compelling case based on forensic evidence and witness testimonies, detailing how Salahuddin S. lured Rubinska and then committed the heinous acts. Despite his initial denials and conflicting statements, the weight of the evidence led to his conviction. The sentencing brings a measure of closure to Rubinska's family and the communities affected by the tragedy.