The Ministry of National Defense says active duty military personnel could
face up to seven years in prison if they pledge allegiance to China.

The warning comes as the defense ministry proposes amendments to Article 24
of the Criminal Code of the Armed Forces.

Defense officials say the Article will be changed to codify punishments for
active duty military personnel.

The proposed amendment is meant to curb the rise in Taiwanese military
personnel caught engaging in espionage activities on Beijing's behalf.

The ministry claims Beijing regularly uses coercion and promises of high
monetary rewards to induce active-duty Taiwanese soldiers into swearing
allegiance by signing written documents, making videos and committing other
acts ..

It argues that such actions seriously damage Taiwan's national security.

Article 24 currently stipulates military personnel who surrender to an enemy
will face the death penalty or a prison sentence between 10 years and life.

The proposed amendments will be reviewed by the Cabinet before they are sent
to Legislative Yuan for a final vote.