Unlike in several other countries, stalking is not a criminal offence in Switzerland, as the Federal Council mistakenly assumes that stalkers do not pose a significant danger. Our experienced private investigators in Zurich – drawing on many years of nationwide casework – know that reality often looks very different.
If you are being stalked, harassed or threatened, do not hesitate to contact us as quickly as possible: +41 44 5522 264.
We distinguish two categories of stalkers: those known to the victim and those who operate anonymously. In around 70 percent of stalking cases, victim and perpetrator are acquainted. These stalkers are often former partners who refuse to accept separation, neighbours, colleagues, former schoolmates, or other individuals whose affection has been rejected – consciously or unconsciously. Psychologically unstable offenders struggle with this rejection and begin to pursue their victims. Stalking – from the English “to stalk”, meaning “to creep up on someone” – manifests in many forms, can affect anyone, and often leaves victims uncertain about how to react.
Unrequited affection frequently turns to anger, leading the offender to torment the victim. Abusive letters, online defamation, threatening text messages, and late-night phone calls are part of the malicious psychological harassment inflicted on victims. There is no universal rule for responding to stalking: ignoring the perpetrator may calm some, while direct confrontation may enrage others. Do not put yourself at unnecessary risk – contact our Swiss detective agency today. We observe the offender and, if desired, confront him or her with our comprehensive, court-admissible written and photographic evidence. Describe your case by email at kontakt@kurtz-detektei-schweiz.ch, or call us.
In cases where the stalker is unknown or conceals their identity, matters become more complex because the motive is initially unclear. It may be someone who envies your success, family life, new car or other achievements; a colleague disappointed about a promotion you received; an employee annoyed with you for reasons unknown; or someone who – on the contrary – had romantic hopes. Just as varied as the motives are the actions: unwanted deliveries of flowers or gifts, phone calls with suggestive undertones, declarations of love via text message or social media, as well as the hostile behaviours described above.
Tracking down such offenders requires a reversal of the usual investigative approach: unlike cases involving a known stalker, it is the victim who must be observed. Our discreet Zurich detective agency monitors the client (i.e. the victim) at any agreed location in Switzerland to identify individuals acting suspiciously, spying on them, delivering threatening letters, and more. This approach enables us to uncover the offender’s identity. With our documented evidence, you can subsequently obtain a civil restraining order. Should the stalker violate this order, the case enters the criminal sphere – despite stalking itself not being a standalone offence in Swiss law – under Article 292 of the Swiss Criminal Code (disobedience to official orders). Use our contact form or call us: +41 44 5522 264.