President Dr Mohamed Muizzu ratified the Fifth Amendment to the Criminal Procedure Act (Law No. 12/2016) today, following its passage by the Parliament during the 58th sitting of the 20th Majlis on Monday, December 9, 2024.
This Amendment seeks to enhance the existing bail system outlined in the current Act by instituting new guidelines and procedures while also amending the established protocols governing bail during investigation or trial periods. Notably, it delineates specific circumstances under which individuals can request bail following a conviction, along with a clear framework for appealing such decisions.
In addition, the Amendment introduces a comprehensive mechanism aimed at addressing cybercrimes perpetrated through new technologies and computer systems. This legislation grants law enforcement agencies the authority to intercept personal information in such cases and to access retained subscriber and communication data via a court order. Additionally, the bill facilitates real-time data requests through a system to be established jointly by financial authorities and law enforcement entities.
Further, the Amendment empowers law enforcement and financial authorities to freeze assets and halt financial transactions of suspects involved in scams, thereby preventing the misuse of funds when such incidents are reported. This measure is designed to bolster public safety and protect individuals' financial resources.
Following its ratification, the Amendment has been published in the Government Gazette and will come into effect accordingly.