MIRI: An attempt to conceal illegal activities was foiled when a cryptocurrency mining operator was caught stealing electricity in a double storey quadra flat at Taman Ceria Permyjaya, Miri.
This was during a joint operation by the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication (MUT) and Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB).
In its press release, it said that while most of the cases of electrical theft occur in landed residential properties and commercial spaces, it is the first discovery of such a property being used for cryptocurrency mining.
“41 cryptocurrency mining servers were discovered on site during the operation, and using direct tapping cable, they were all directly connected to the incoming mains together with other electronic devices.
“All servers, direct tapping cables and relevant equipment were seized,” it added.
It then also said that a police report has been lodged and all involved parties will be further investigated, and those found guilty will be charged under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, with fines up to RM100,000 and/or five years in prison.
Sarawak Energy has incurred losses of approximately RM7,700 per month due to un-billed electricity consumption.
Although Sarawak’s customers enjoy the lowest average tariffs in Malaysia, power thefts continue to occur as irresponsible individuals and business entities seek to make easy profit.
Sarawak Energy will continue to work with MUT and the police to track down and detect more electricity thieves, especially cryptocurrency mining operators.
Collaboration with agencies such as the Fire and Rescue Department is also ongoing to raise awareness on safe electricity usage to prevent fires.
Members of the public are reminded not to trust service providers claiming to be able to reduce electricity use or allow premise owners to enjoy unlimited usage of electricity through meter tampering.
Those with information or suspicions on power theft are strongly encouraged to step forward and contact Sarawak Energy’s customer care centre at 1300-88-3111 or email at customercare@sarawakenergy.com.
Sarawak Energy assures that all information received will be kept strictly confidential.
