KUALA LUMPUR: The cabinet has agreed to strengthen laws against online scams involving mule accounts.
This will involve tabling amendments to the Penal Code and the Criminal Procedure Code during this Parliamentary session.
The amendments will be tabled by the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform). Its minister, Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said the government hopes this initiative will receive the support from members of the Parliament from both sides of the aisle.
She said the Proposed Penal Code (Amendment) Bill 2024 included specific provisions regarding the use of mule accounts.
"The proposed amendments will, among others, establish offences, if any person is found in possession of another person's payment instrument without authority or lawful purpose, and also, if any person allows their payment instrument to be used by another without authority or lawful purpose.
"These amendments to the Penal Code Act 574 are crucial at this time to ensure they keep pace with the rapid advancements and sophistication of current technology, particularly those frequently used, and misused by criminals."
Simultaneously, the Proposed Criminal Procedure Code (Amendment) Bill 2024 will introduce new procedural provisions by granting police the authority to seize funds from bank accounts suspected to be involved in criminal activities and related matters.
"In this context, the introduction of more effective and specific legal provisions will enhance the ability of enforcement agencies to carry out their duties and responsibilities effectively."