By DayakDaily Team
MIRI, March 19: Six cryptocurrency mining operations have been uncovered engaging in electricity theft, potentially costing up to RM80,000 monthly in unbilled charges, in shophouses and residential areas located in Pujut and Taman Boulevard.
The discovery was a result of a joint effort between Sarawak Energy Berhad’s operational and retail arm, Syarikat Sesco Berhad (Sesco), and the police during a targeted two-day anti-power theft operation recently.
Over the two days of the operation, Sarawak Energy said the raiding team discovered hidden direct tapping cables above the ceilings in all the raided premises.
These cables were used to bypass meters, enabling the illegal connection of electricity directly into the premises without detecting power consumption.
According to a media release today, more than 110 cryptocurrency mining servers were seized from the locations.
All direct tapping cables and servers uncovered were confiscated as evidence, and police reports were lodged to initiate investigations.
The individuals involved will be called up to assist with the investigations and may face charges under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance. If found guilty, they may be fined up to RM200,000 and/or a maximum of five years imprisonment.
Sarawak Energy warned that non-standard and unsafe wiring is commonly utilised, posing risks of fire, damage to electrical appliances, loss of life, and power supply disruptions to neighbouring properties.
With commitment to combating power theft, it is working closely with the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication and the police to intensify searches on cryptocurrency mining operations that are found stealing electricity.
The electricity provider also cautioned the public against services promising cheaper electricity bills. Sesco’s technical teams are well-trained and have the necessary tools to detect all forms of electricity theft.
Landlords are advised to exercise caution when renting out properties to protect themselves from potential unlawful activities conducted by tenants. Meters should be registered under the tenant’s name to mitigate the risk of liability for electricity theft.
Individuals with information related to power-theft are encouraged to come forward and contact Sarawak Energy through its customer care centre at 1300-88-3111 or by emailing customercare@sarawakenergy.com. All information provided will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. — DayakDaily
