The draft bill was proposed by the Cabinet following the recurring problem of many defendants released on bail absconding before trial and causing a delay in the judicial process.

The disruption also affected crime-prevention policies, the proposal read. Also, currently there are neither officials tasked with ensuring that released defendants heed the conditions set by the court nor are there officials in charge of pursuing those who are absconding, it read. Hence, such mechanisms were needed.

Officials given such responsibilities would be entitled to an extra allowance, unless the absconders remained at large and caused further damages.

Those who give tip-offs to officials leading to the arrest of absconders would also be rewarded, according to the bill.

All 175 NLA members who were present voted to pass the first reading of the bill.

The second reading will take place after 60 days of deliberation by responsible panels.