Alleged scam centre workers and victims gather during a crackdown operation by the Karen Border Guard Force on illicit activity at the border checkpoint with Thailand in Myawaddy, Myanmar on February 23, 2025. — AFP pic Stay updated on the latest news and insights. Subscribe to our newsletter here Summary Myanmar's parliament has approved the "Anti-Online Scam Bill," which enacts the death penalty for individuals who detain or force victims into working in online scam operations.This legislation was passed following amendments to a draft bill during a joint session of the lower and upper houses.The inclusion of capital punishment was confirmed by lower house MP Aye Chan. First Published: Tuesday, 28 Jul 2026 2:01 PM MYT YANGON, July 28 — Myanmar’s military-backed parliament approved a law on Tuesday that authorises capital punishment for those who detain or violently coerce victims into working in online scam centres, the speaker said.The “Anti-Online Scam Bill” was passed after MPs approved changes to a draft bill at a combined meeting of the lower and upper houses Tuesday morning in the capital Naypyidaw, Union Parliament Speaker Aung Lin Dwe said during a live television broadcast.Lower house MP Aye Chan confirmed to AFP that the death sentence remained in the approved version of the law. — AFP