Article 397 — Breaches of Official Secrecy.

(1) Public servants (Art. 402) who disclose information, documents or facts which are secret within the meaning of Article 396 and which have come to their knowledge in the course of their duties, are punishable with simple imprisonment or fine, whether the disclosure was made during the period of their employment, office or duties or after termination thereof. (2) Where there is aggravation due to the criminal's special obligation to maintain secrecy or special position of trust, or to the gravity of the damage caused by the breach of duty, the punishment shall be rigorous imprisonment not exceeding ten years. (3) Where the crime is committed negligently, the punishment shall be fine not exceeding one thousand Birr, or simple imprisonment not exceeding one year in the case of the simple crime under sub-article (1), or simple imprisonment not exceeding three years in the case of the crime under sub-article (2), hereinabove.