Another Case of Electricity Theft Linked to Cryptocurrency Mining Discovered in Miri

(MIRI, 22nd) In an ongoing effort to combat illegal power usage, Sarawak Energy’s operations and retail subsidiary, Syarikat SESCO Berhad (SESCO), collaborated with the police to uncover a case of electricity theft involving cryptocurrency mining activities in Miri.

During a joint raid, the enforcement team found an illegal power connection in a two-storey shophouse in Desa Senadin, Miri. Hidden direct tapping cables running through the ceiling were bypassing the electricity meter, supplying power to 25 cryptocurrency mining servers. It is estimated that this illegal setup caused about RM18,000 in electricity fee losses per month.

The SESCO team dismantled the illegal installations on site, and the servers were confiscated as evidence. Police reports have been filed, and investigations are ongoing.

This case is similar to a recent incident in Vistana Perdana, Miri, where a rented single-storey house was found bypassing the electricity meter with direct tapping cables. In 2024, a total of 48 electricity theft cases related to cryptocurrency mining were recorded in Miri, which constitute the majority of 56 cases in the whole of Sarawak, resulting in total economic losses exceeding RM20 million.

The Risks of Electricity Theft

Illegal electricity connections not only cause financial losses but also present serious safety risks, such as fire hazards, electrocution incidents, and damage to infrastructure caused by unregulated wiring.

Additionally, unauthorized installations can interfere with the power supply to surrounding areas, creating further risks and inconvenience.

According to Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, offenders face penalties of up to RM200,000 in fines and/or up to five years of imprisonment.

SESCO reminds property owners to closely monitor the usage of their properties to prevent illegal activities, as property owners may also be held accountable.

Sarawak Energy will continue to work closely with enforcement agencies and the Sarawak Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication to combat electricity theft and ensure offenders are prosecuted according to law.

Public Urged to Report Electricity Theft

Sarawak Energy urges the public to actively report any suspicious activities related to electricity theft by calling the Customer Care Centre hotline at 1300-88-3111 or emailing customercare@sarawakenergy.com. All reports will be kept strictly confidential.