Parliament on Monday passed the Narcotics Control (Amendment) Bill, introducing the death penalty as the maximum punishment for illegal drug trading conducted through cyberspace and digital platforms.
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed placed the bill in the House, where it was passed by a voice vote after lawmakers disposed of proposals for public opinion scrutiny, referral to the parliamentary standing committee and amendments.
The amendment incorporates a new provision recommended by the parliamentary committee to criminalise technology-based narcotics offences.
Under the new law, any person who directly or indirectly uses cyberspace, digital devices, websites, social media, mobile apps, online platforms, electronic communication systems or any other digital medium to purchase, sell, supply, offer, advertise, facilitate, communicate or engage in any illegal activity involving narcotic drugs or psychoactive substances will be guilty of an offence.
The law also makes it an offence to use or attempt to use digital payment systems, e-wallets, virtual assets or cryptocurrencies in connection with such illegal activities.
It further provides that the recovery of narcotic drugs from the accused will not be mandatory to prosecute offences committed through digital platforms.
Those convicted may face imprisonment for any term or the maximum penalty of death, along with a fine of up to Tk 20 lakh.
If the offence is committed as part of an international or organised criminal network, offenders may be sentenced to imprisonment for any term, fined up to Tk 50 lakh, or both.
The law also authorises competent courts or, where applicable, Narcotics Crime Suppression Tribunals to order the blocking, removal, seizure, confiscation or forfeiture to the state of cyberspace resources, digital devices, digital accounts, digital payment systems, e wallets, virtual assets and cryptocurrencies used in such crimes.
The amendment retains the jurisdiction of ordinary courts while reintroducing provisions for establishing separate Narcotics Crime Suppression Tribunals in areas particularly vulnerable to drug related offences.
It also introduces provisions empowering the Department of Narcotics Control to possess firearms and establish dog squads to strengthen enforcement against technology driven drug crimes, particularly those committed in cyberspace.
Speaking during the discussion on the bill, Salahuddin acknowledged allegations that some members of law enforcement agencies are involved in narcotics trading.
He said no one will be spared in such cases and that administrative action is being taken against those found responsible.
