by DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Jan 23: Sarawak Energy, through its operations and retail arm, Syarikat SESCO Bhd (SESCO) uncovered three more illegal cryptocurrency mining operations found stealing an estimated RM36,000 worth of electricity monthly.
In a statement, it said, the three cases of electricity theft linked to cryptocurrency mining operations were discovered in Jalan Acacia and Pujut, Miri.
The illegal installations, located in a double-storey terrace house and a three-storey shophouse, involved the direct tapping of electricity cables to power 55 cryptocurrency servers.
“The thefts were identified through links to previous cases and a public report.
“SESCO’s inspection team uncovered unauthorised connections, where direct tapping cables bypassed the electricity meters to the incoming mains – resulting in financial losses of over RM36,000 per month,” it said.
SESCO has dismantled the illegal connections, with the mining servers and other electronic devices found on site seized as evidence for ongoing police investigation.
The suspects involved might face charges under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, which carries penalties of up to RM200,000 in fines and/or five years imprisonment.
With the rising trend in cryptocurrency mining, Sarawak Energy said it will intensify its focus on monitoring and addressing mining activities running on stolen electricity.
The company remains committed to collaborating with the authorities and enhancing its enforcement efforts to safeguard public safety while ensuring the reliability of power supply.
“Cryptocurrency mining operations are energy-intensive and pose serious safety risks when they involve non-standard and unsafe wiring.
“Sarawak Energy continues to emphasise that power theft is not only unlawful but also endangers public safety by increasing the likelihood of electrical fires and infrastructure damage, which can cause fire, loss of life and power supply disruptions to neighbouring properties,” it said.
Property owners are advised to exercise caution when renting out their 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 illegal activities. Members of the public should be cautious of anyone promising free or cheap electricity, as this is often indicative of electricity theft, which is punishable by law,” it said.
Those with information related to power theft are urged to contact Sarawak Energy through its customer care centre at 1-300-88-3111 or by emailing customercare@sarawakenergy.com. All reports will be kept strictly confidential. – DayakDaily
