By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Dec 4: Syarikat SESCO Berhad (SESCO) has uncovered a cryptocurrency mining operation stealing electricity in Jalan Aman, Sibu, during a routine inspection.
According to a press statement by Sarawak Energy today, the discovery involved 32 cryptocurrency mining rigs hidden behind signboards connected to direct tapping cables that bypassed electricity meters.
The illegal setup was identified after SESCO’s technical team detected irregular electricity consumption patterns at the premises.
“The theft caused an estimated monthly loss of over RM20,000 in unbilled electricity consumption,” read the statement.
Preliminary investigations pointed to the tenant of the shophouse as the operator of the mining facility who is suspected of running the cryptocurrency mining operation.
Both landlord and tenant are investigated under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, carrying penalties of up to RM200,000 in fines and/or five years of imprisonment upon conviction.
Illegal direct tapping cables not only violate SESCO’s safety standards but also create serious safety risks, including fire hazards, electrocution, and potential power outages that can affect neighbouring buildings.
Landlords are urged to conduct thorough background checks on tenants to prevent their properties from being used for illegal operations.
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activities related to power theft to Sarawak Energy’s Customer Care Centre at 1300-88-3111 or via email at customercare@sarawakenergy.com.
All information will be kept strictly confidential. –DayakDaily
