By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 25: A public tip-off has led to the discovery of illegal electricity tapping and the seizure of seven inactive cryptocurrency mining machines at a rented semi-detached house in Jalan Besi Pujut, Miri, causing monthly losses of about RM3,100 to Sarawak Energy.
Sarawak Energy’s operations and retail arm, Syarikat SESCO Berhad (SESCO), sent a meter inspection team to the premises following a public report, the company said in a press release.
Upon inspection, the team uncovered direct tapping cables connected illegally to the power supply, along with racks of mining servers.
The discovery was made in the presence of the informant, who acted as a witness.
The seized equipment has been handed over to authorities, and a police report has been lodged.
Investigations are ongoing under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, which carries a penalty of up to RM200,000 in fines and/or five years’ imprisonment upon conviction.
“This incident highlights a rising trend of unauthorised electricity use by cryptocurrency miners attempting to cut costs, especially amid increasing cryptocurrency prices.
“Such unauthorised connections bypass essential safety mechanisms and pose severe risks, including electrocution, electrical fires. and damage to nearby properties,” it stated.
The utility urged members of the public to remain vigilant for suspicious signs such as unusually high electricity consumption, tampered meters, or properties with continuous cooling systems.
Property owners were also reminded to update electricity account names when renting out properties and to stay aware of tenant activities to avoid legal complications.
Sarawak Energy reiterated that all information shared with its Customer Care Centre (1300-88-3111) or via email (customercare@sarawakenergy.com) will be treated with strict confidentiality. — DayakDaily
