Scotland probes new deaths linked to online ‘suicide kits’ after Canadian conviction

Following Kenneth Law’s guilty plea in Canada for providing lethal substances that have been linked to around 70 deaths in Britain, prosecutors in Scotland are now reviewing a small number of fatalities thought to involve “suicide kits” obtained via internet forums. The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service confirmed that each death will be assessed on its own facts and that possible criminal involvement will be evaluated.

Families of Scottish victims testified in Ontario during Law’s sentencing hearing, highlighting the cross-border impact of his operations. The Molly Rose Foundation, founded by Ian Russell, has urged Prime Minister Andy Burnham to launch a public inquiry, condemning what it calls a sluggish regulatory response. The National Crime Agency led a three-year investigation, working closely with Canadian authorities, while Ofcom’s earlier action resulted in geo-blocking the forum and a £950,000 penalty.