PUTRAJAYA: The Cabinet has endorsed proposals for policy and a draft bill to amend the Penal Code [Act 574] and the Criminal Procedure Code [Act 593], targeting online crime involving mule accounts, to be presented in Parliament during the ongoing session.

The 2024 draft Penal Code (Amendment) Bill includes specific provisions addressing the use of mule accounts, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said.

"These amendments propose penalties if any person is found in possession of another's payment instrument without authority or legitimate purpose, and if anyone allows their payment instrument to be used by another without such authority or purpose," she said in a statement on Friday (July 5).

Azalina emphasised the urgency of amending the Penal Code [Act 574] to keep pace with rapid technological advancements frequently exploited by criminals.

She said the proposed 2024 Criminal Procedure Code (Amendment) Bill introduces new procedural provisions empowering police to direct the seizure of funds in bank accounts suspected of involvement in criminal activities.

"Introducing these specific legal provisions is crucial to enhancing the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in their duties," she said.

Azalina expressed hope that bipartisan support from members of parliament will ensure the safety and well-being of the people under the Madani Government. - Bernama

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/05/cabinet-backs-amendments-to-penal-criminal-procedure-codes-for-mule-account-crimes