Body in suitcases murder: Victim is named as Phoenix Netts
A woman whose remains were found in two suitcases in the Forest of Dean has been named by police as Phoenix Netts.
The 28-year-old's body was discovered by officers in Gloucestershire last Tuesday.
Detectives from West Midlands Police are now leading the murder investigation.
Tributes have been paid by the family of the victim who have been left "devastated" by the news.
They said in a statement: "As a family we are devastated with what has happened to Phoenix.
"We ask most humbly that our family’s privacy is respected whilst we grieve and come to terms with the loss of Phoenix in such tragic circumstances.
"Whilst we understand this is a news story, we hope everyone can understand why we need to be left alone at this very difficult time.
"We have family and good friends supporting us and our thanks go out to all of them.
"We would also like to thank all the police officers involved in the investigation for their hard work and sensitivity."
Officers made the discovery on May 12 with the A4136 between Monmouth and Coleford cordoned off as investigations got under way.
Two people charged in connection with the murder appeared at Gloucester Crown Court this morning.
Gareeca Conita Gordon, aged 27, from Salisbury Road, Birmingham, was charged with the murder of a woman on or before May 12.
Mahesh Sorathiya, aged 38, from Denmore Gardens, Wolverhampton, was charged with assisting an offender on or before the 12 May.
Gordon was remanded into prison, while the court granted Sorathiya conditional bail, and both are next due to appear at Bristol Crown Court on August 4.
Exactly where Phoenix was killed is still unknown and officers continue to follow up a number of enquiries.
Detective Chief Inspector Scott Griffiths from West Midlands Police's homicide team said: "Firstly, I’d like to offer my sincere condolences to Phoenix’s family.
"We’ve worked closely with colleagues at Gloucestershire over the past week and our investigation continues at pace.
"We’d urge anyone with any information about the tragic loss of Phoenix’s life to get in touch with us."
Anyone with any information can contact West Midlands Police via Live Chat at our website or by calling 101 anytime.
Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or at crimestoppers-uk.org
