KOTA KINABALU: Sarawak Energy Bhd (SEB) has revealed a significant number of electricity theft incidents related to cryptocurrency mining, with Miri recording the highest occurrences in Sarawak, Borneo Post reported.

According to SEB, about 60 per cent of the 260 cases detected statewide since 2018 were in Miri, contributing to a monthly loss of around RM4 million.

The utility company highlighted that the recent detection of three major crypto mining operations in Miri, which illegally used stolen electricity, resulted in a monthly loss estimated at RM30,000.

In a joint operation with the police, SEB's operation division, Sesco Bhd, uncovered illegal electricity connections at commercial and residential units in Pujut and the Miri-Bintulu road area.

"During the raids, Sesco's meter inspection team discovered fingerprint cables used to bypass meters and illegally extract electricity from main lines.

"Over 70 cryptocurrency mining servers and other electronic devices were seized as evidence in the ongoing investigation," SEB said in a press release.

These recent discoveries follow the detection of six previous power theft cases in Miri by Sesco and local authorities. Individuals involved in these cases are currently under investigation under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, with penalties reaching up to RM200,000 and/or imprisonment for up to five years if convicted.

Despite Sarawak's competitive electricity rates in the region, the high energy demands from cryptocurrency mining operations often drive operators to steal electricity to reduce costs.

However, SEB warns that such operations typically involve the use of non-standard, unsafe wiring that can pose fire hazards, damage to electrical devices, risk of life, and power supply disruptions to nearby properties.

The utility company also warns against service providers promising cheaper electricity bills and advises property owners to be vigilant when leasing properties to prevent illegal activities by tenants.

"Electricity accounts should be registered under the tenant's name to minimise the risk of involvement in electricity theft," SEB said.

Individuals with information regarding power theft are encouraged to report such incidents directly to SEB.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/04/1039156/miri-tops-electricity-theft-and-crypto-mining-incidents-sarawak