Criminal
A 2017 Penal Code replacing the 1989 Criminal Law
The Penal Code of 2017 replaced the 1989 Criminal Law, consolidating offences and penalties. The death penalty remains available for serious drug offences, though executions are not reported to have been carried out for many years. Drug offences carry very severe penalties and are the most common serious charge affecting foreign nationals.
Governing law
- Penal Code, No. 26/NA of 2017 — Replaced the 1989 Criminal Law.
- Law on Criminal Procedure, No. 27/NA of 2017 — Investigation and trial procedure.
In practice
The Penal Code 2017 is the consolidated criminal statute. The death penalty is retained for aggravated drug trafficking and certain other offences. The Law on Criminal Procedure 2017 governs investigation, detention and trial. Defamation and offences against the state are criminal and have been applied to online speech. Drug quantity thresholds trigger mandatory severe sentences — this is the dominant risk for foreign visitors. Consular access is provided for but delays are common; detention conditions are a practical concern.