(Miri, 4th) Sarawak Energy's subsidiary Sarawak Electricity Supply Corporation (Sesco) joined forces with police to crack down on an electricity theft case involving cryptocurrency mining activities at a double-storey terraced house on Pujut Road, Miri, resulting in estimated power bill losses of about RM7,000 per month.
During this operation, authorities seized 17 cryptocurrency mining servers and illegal electricity theft cables. It was discovered that the suspects bypassed the electricity meter by directly tapping into the main power supply to evade electricity charges. This constitutes an unmetered connection and is a serious violation of the Electricity Ordinance.
Sesco has lodged a police report over this case, which will be investigated under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance. Upon conviction, the maximum penalty is a RM200,000 fine or five years’ imprisonment, or both.
Sarawak Energy pointed out that cryptocurrency mining consumes a large amount of electricity, and criminals often illegally tap into power sources to reduce operating costs. However, such actions are extremely dangerous as they bypass required safety mechanisms and may cause electric shocks, short circuits, or fire, endangering nearby residents and public safety.
Sesco urges landlords to be vigilant and to regularly inspect rented properties. If abnormal power usage, suspected meter tampering, or continual operation of cooling equipment are found, these may be warning signs of illegal mining activities. Although tenants are responsible for their own actions, negligence by landlords may also result in associated consequences.
Sarawak Energy emphasised that it will continue to collaborate with enforcement agencies to proactively combat electricity theft. Members of the public who spot suspicious electricity theft activities can report anonymously to Sesco's customer service centre (1300-88-3111), email customercare@sarawakenergy.com, or use the SEB Cares app.
