MIRI: A cryptocurrency mining operation in a residential house here is now in trouble for electricity theft, with 17 cryptocurrency mining servers and illegal tapping cables seized.
Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) and the police, discovered the illegal activity during a joint operation at a double-storey semi-detached house along Jalan Pujut recently.
“It was found that the electricity was stolen from the main supply through direct tapping.
“The unmetered connection connection bypassed the electricity meter and resulted in estimated losses of about RM7,000 per month,” SEB said in a statement today.
A police report has been lodged, and the case is being investigated under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, which carries a fine of up to RM200,000 and/or a maximum jail term of five years upon conviction.
“Cryptocurrency mining consumes high amounts of electricity, and some operators resort to unauthorised connections to reduce overhead costs.
“These illegal connections are extremely dangerous as they bypass essential safety mechanisms, posing serious risk of electrocution, electrical fires and damage to neighbouring properties,” it said.
The utility company therefore reminded landlords to conduct regular checks on their properties.
“Red flags of illicit mining activity include unusual electricity usage, signs of tampering or rooms with constant cooling equipment,” it said.
It added that although tenants are responsible for their actions, property owners may still face consequences if they fail to exercise due diligence.
To combat power theft, SEB said it will continue to work closely with enforcement agencies.
The public is also urged to report suspicious activities via its Sarawak Energy’s Customer Care Centre at 1300-88-3111, email at customercare@sarawakenergy.com, or through the SEB cares app.
