Swiss police have arrested multiple individuals following the death of a 64-year-old American woman who used a controversial ‘suicide capsule’ known as the Sarco Pod.

The incident occurred in a forest near Merishausen, close to the German border, on Monday, marking the first time the device had been employed.

The Sarco Pod, developed by Australian doctor Philip Nitschke, allows users to end their lives by pressing a button that releases nitrogen gas into a sealed chamber. The gas causes a drop in oxygen levels, leading to unconsciousness and eventual death by suffocation. The woman, suffering from severe autoimmune conditions, had travelled to Switzerland specifically to use the device, as the country permits assisted suicide under specific conditions.

Swiss authorities opened a criminal investigation, citing potential charges of incitement and aiding suicide. Police in Schaffhausen confirmed that several people had been detained as part of the probe. Public prosecutors are also investigating whether other laws were violated during the use of the Sarco Pod.

Florian Willet, co-president of The Last Resort, an organization advocating for the right to assisted suicide and connected to Exit International, a non-profit founded by Dr. Philip Nitschke that promotes the legalization of assisted suicide, was reportedly the only person present at the time of the woman's death. He described the event as “peaceful, fast, and dignified.” Nitschke, who monitored the death via video link, said the process worked as expected, with the woman losing consciousness within two minutes.

While Switzerland allows assisted suicide, questions have arisen regarding the legality of the Sarco Pod. Interior Minister Élisabeth Baume-Schneider questioned its compliance with product safety and chemical regulations, adding that its use may not be lawful under Swiss law.

Authorities have warned Exit International of potential legal repercussions, signaling ongoing scrutiny of assisted suicide practices in the country. (ILKHA)