Graz Internist Arrested in Zurich: Investigation into Covert Recordings at Practice

He is being investigated on suspicion of "indecent assault, violation of the secret or private sphere through recording devices, and other offenses to the detriment of patients in his Zurich practice," the prosecutor's office stated. The authorities have not yet specified concrete allegations regarding the number and identity of possible victims.

Background of the Investigation

The investigation has been ongoing since autumn 2025, after a mutual legal assistance request from the Swiss judicial authorities arrived in Graz. According to an ORF report, the Austrian authorities received a tip from their Swiss colleagues at that time. According to media reports, the covert recordings are said to have been made as early as 2012.

The internist had operated practices in both Graz and Switzerland. After the investigation began, he was placed under a professional ban. According to the "Kronen Zeitung" report, he is said to have continued practicing medicine in Switzerland even after the ban was imposed.

Allegations and Response from the Authorities

The authorities have not yet confirmed that the physician apparently made covert recordings as early as 2012 and had positioned several cameras, some hidden in tissue boxes, in his practice. The prosecutor's office merely stated in this regard that it would not comment further in view of the ongoing proceedings.

At the same time, the prosecutor's office emphasized: "The presumption of innocence applies until a final conclusion of the proceedings." The authorities also did not publicly disclose details regarding the exact time of the arrest or the status of the proceedings.

Legal Classification

The Zurich Cantonal Prosecutor's Office confirmed the information that was taken from a "Kronen Zeitung" report on Friday. In a written statement, the Swiss authority also explained that the accused is a 65-year-old Austrian.

The case evokes memories of earlier scandals involving doctors who allegedly secretly filmed patients during treatment situations. What consequences the ongoing investigation will have for the accused remains unclear at present.