TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Individuals who disregard COVID-19 regulations and infect others could face three years in prison or a maximum fine of NT$500,000 (US$18,000), reports said Saturday (Jan. 15).

The mention of the punishments by Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) chief Chen Shih-chung (陳時中) followed media reports about travelers entering Taiwan with forged PCR test results. The country confirmed a single-day record of 72 imported COVID cases Saturday as thousands of Taiwanese living overseas continue to return home for the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday."

Chen said the illegal act already amounts to forgery, and it will also be targeted with administrative sanctions, the Liberty Times reported. If someone knows they have been infected with COVID, brings a false PCR test result, and infected others, this person could face a maximum prison term of three years, Chen said.

The fine for flouting basic COVID procedures during quarantine or treatment ranges from NT$3,000 to NT$15,000 and can be imposed for each infraction of the rules, according to the CECC chief.