PADAWAN: Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) has uncovered a case of electricity theft for cryptocurrency mining operations in a shophouse here recently.
In a joint operation led by its operations and retail arm Syarikat Sesco Berhad and the police, the team found 60 cryptocurrency mining rigs in the shophouse.
The operation team uncovering direct tapping cables used for stealing electricity.
“The cryptocurrency mining rigs were connected illegally to the incoming mains through direct tapping cables.
“All of the rigs and other equipment related to mining operation were dismantled and confiscated as evidence.
“This incident has caused SEB to incur losses amounting to RM15,000 per month,” SEB said.
Just recently, two power theft incidents involving cryptocurrency mining at Desa Bahagia and Senadin in Miri were uncovered by SEB and the authorities.
A total of 60 mining rigs were seized as evidence of electricity theft.
Those found guilty of electricity theft will face charges under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, which carries penalties of up to RM100,000 in fines or up to five years in prison, upon conviction.
In cases involving cryptocurrency mining, the high energy requirement can potentially overload the electrical system, resulting in neighbourhood wide outages and affecting nearby residents.
Beyond the financial consequences, electricity theft poses significant risks, including short circuits, fires, damage to appliances, and even potential loss of life.
The public are strongly cautioned against engaging with service providers who offer to reduce electricity consumption or provide unlimited power supply through meter tampering.
Sarawak Energy’s meter inspection teams are well equipped to identify various electricity theft methods, and the use of smart meters enables the rapid detection and disconnection of electricity theft.
Landlords are urged to exercise caution and conduct thorough checks when renting out properties to protect themselves from potential illegal activities conducted by tenants.
The direct tapping cables found at the shophouse.
Individuals with information of electricity theft, should report them to SEB’s customer care centre at 1300-88-3111 or via email at customercare@sarawakenergy.com
