Myanmar proposes death penalty for serious cyber scam offences

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Yangon: In an effort to combat the nation's growing online fraud sector, the military-backed government of Myanmar has proposed a new draft law that would impose the death penalty for serious cyber scam-related offences.

The proposed "Anti-Online Scam Bill," which was released on Thursday, would permit the death penalty for those convicted of using violence, torture, threats, or illegal detention to pressure others into working in scam operations. The draft also specifies that those who arrange large-scale internet scam centres and bitcoin fraud networks could face life imprisonment in jail.

According to reports, thousands of people from numerous countries have been trafficked into Myanmar and made to labour in awful conditions in fraud centers. As per the details shared by those who survived, if they didn't meet fraud targets, they were assaulted, tortured, and imprisoned.

Following a spike in incidents involving Chinese citizens as both perpetrators and victims, regional countries, particularly China, have put more pressure on Myanmar authorities to crack down on scam activities.

As authorities look for more stringent punishments against organised cybercrime networks, the proposed law is anticipated to be discussed in parliament next month.