LAW PASSED TO COMPEL SERVICE PROVIDERS TO COMPLY WITH REQUESTS IN POLICE PROBES

Parliament’s lower house has passed tough legislation to strengthen the ability of law enforcers to more effectively investigate crimes.

The Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Bill was passed on Tuesday, compelling individuals and companies to promptly turn over electronic information duly requested in investigation of crimes.

There was strong bipartisan support for the legislation, as one lawmaker disclosed he was targeted by fraudsters just days ago.

The resolute message to companies such as telecoms service providers is that there will be hefty fines or even prison time if they refuse to comply.

Garfield Burford reports.