A DEATH capsule designed to euthanize patients will be used for the first time in Switzerland in the next few weeks.
Dubbed the “Tesla” of death pods, the Sarco, short for sarcophagus, by assisted dying group Exit Switzerland is something out of sci-fi film.
The coffin like death pod would allow the euthanasia patient to press a button and die within seconds as the chamber fills with nitrogen to starve the person of oxygen.
The person would be unconscious before they die.
The controversial assisted dying advocate and Australia researcher Dr Philip Nitschke, dubbed ‘Dr Death’, claims his invention could allow users to die swiftly and painlessly.
The death doc said his device would give people the chance to end their lives in a ‘peaceful’ way.
He told local media: “There’s no panic, no choking feeling.
“The machine can be towed anywhere for the death.
“It can be in an idyllic outdoor setting or in the premises of an assisted suicide organisation, for example.
“The person will get into the capsule and lie down.
“It’s very comfortable.”
He continued: “The person will climb into the machine, they will be asked three questions and they will answer verbally – ‘Who are you?’, ‘Where are you?’ and ‘Do you know what happens if you press the button?’
“And if they answer those questions verbally, the software then switches the power on so that the button can then be pressed.”
Nitschke, a doctor, helped four terminally ill patients commit suicide in the 1990s, when Australia was the first country in the world to allow this – at least for a short time.
Local media outlet NZZ reported that the Sarco’s deployment in Switzerland was expected in the next few weeks.
Meanwhile, well-informed sources told the website that Exit Switzerland’s preparations are largely complete and the launch is scheduled for July.
Sources suggest a candidate for euthanasia has been allegedly selected, however it is unclear who the person is.
Dr Nitschke and his team have neither confirmed nor denied the reports.
However, pro-life groups have warned the pods made by a 3D printer, “glamorises suicide”.
James Mildren, Director of engagement pro-life group CARE, said: “Philip Nitschke’s device has been condemned by a broad range of commentators.
“Many people feel that it trivialises, and even glamourises, suicide.
“We believe that suicide is a tragedy that good societies seek to prevent in every circumstance.
“There are ethical ways to help human beings that don’t involve the destruction of life.”
Around 1,250 people ended their life using assisted suicide in Switzerland last year.
Both assisted suicide and euthanasia are illegal in the UK.
For anyone struggling to cope, call Samaritans for free on 116 123 or contact other sources of support, such as those listed on the NHS’s help for suicidal thoughts webpage.
EVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicide.
It doesn’t discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers.
It’s the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes.
Yet it’s rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now.
That is why The Sun launched the You’re Not Alone campaign.
The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives.
Let’s all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You’re Not Alone.
If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support:
