MIRI: Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB), through its operations and retail arm Syarikat SESCO Berhad (SESCO), has intensified efforts to combat electricity theft, with a recent crackdown uncovering three illegal cryptocurrency mining operations here.
The cases, detected in Jalan Acacia and Pujut, involved a double-storey terrace house and a three-storey shophouse, where electricity was directly tapped to power a total of 55 cryptocurrency servers.
These illegal activities were linked to previous cases and a public tip-off, which led to the discovery of unauthorised connections that bypassed electricity meters, causing financial losses of over RM36,000 per month.
“Following inspections, SESCO dismantled the illegal wiring, and the mining equipment was seized as evidence for ongoing police investigations. The suspects may face charges under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, which carries penalties of up to RM200,000 in fines and/or a five-year prison term,” it said in a press release today (Jan 23).
Sarawak Energy highlighted the dangers associated with electricity theft, noting that cryptocurrency mining operations consume large amounts of energy and pose serious safety risks. Unauthorised and unsafe wiring increases the risk of electrical fires and infrastructure damage, potentially leading to power disruptions and endangering lives.
With the rising trend of cryptocurrency mining in Sarawak, Sarawak Energy has vowed to intensify monitoring efforts and collaborate with authorities to prevent power theft. Property owners are urged to remain vigilant and ensure tenants register electricity meters under their names to avoid legal repercussions.
The public is encouraged to report any suspected electricity theft cases by contacting Sarawak Energy’s customer care centre at 1-300-88-3111 or via email at customercare@sarawakenergy.com. All reports will be kept strictly confidential.
