Myanmar Passes Tough Anti-Scam Law With Death Penalty Provision
Myanmar Passes Tough Anti-Scam Law With Death Penalty Provision
NAYPYIDAW, 29 July 2026 — Myanmar’s parliament has approved a new law imposing some of the country’s toughest penalties on crimes linked to online scam operations, including the death penalty in cases where victims die as a result of unlawful detention, torture or violence.
The legislation, approved on Tuesday, authorizes prison sentences ranging from 10 years to life imprisonment, with capital punishment available for offenders whose actions lead to a victim’s death.
According to the Khaosod newspaper, parliamentary speaker Aung Lin Dwe announced the passage of the Anti-Online Scam Bill following a joint session of Myanmar’s upper and lower houses in the capital, Naypyidaw.
Under the new law, individuals found guilty of operating online scam centers or participating in cryptocurrency-related fraud schemes could face life imprisonment.
The legislation is the first law approved under Myanmar’s new government led by Min Aung Hlaing.
Myanmar has become a major hub for online scam compounds and human trafficking networks in recent years, with victims from more than 80 countries reportedly forced to work in fraudulent operations across the country.
The new law is aimed at strengthening the government’s legal framework against organized cyber fraud and the criminal networks operating scam centers.
