Power theft: SEB nabs cryptocurrency mining operator

KUCHING: More than 20 cases of electricity theft have been discovered this year, 12 of which have been brought to court.
Sarawak Energy Berhad said most recently, a cryptocurrency mining operator in Pujut, Miri was caught stealing electricity.
Sarawak Energy’s utility arm Syarikat Sesco Berhad and the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication of Sarawak raided the premises – an unoccupied double-storey semi-detached house.
“A total of 40 cryptocurrency mining servers and direct tapping cables were found in the premises and were seized immediately as evidence,” it stated in a statement Saturday.
It is estimated that Sarawak Energy incurred losses of more than RM8,000 per month from unrecorded electricity consumption at the premises and a police report has been lodged for further investigation.
According to Sarawak Energy, electricity theft is a punishable offence under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance. Guilty parties can face fines of up to RM100,000 and/or imprisonment for a maximum of five years.
Cryptocurrency mining consumes a high amount of electricity due to its continuous operation and the need for cooling systems to prevent server overheating.
To mitigate the high operational costs, cryptocurrency miners often resort to non-standard installations that can overload the electrical system.
This poses increased risks of short circuits, appliance damage, fires and potential loss of life.
Sarawak Energy continues to pursue the fight against electricity theft by collaborating with relevant agencies and the public, who step forward and render their cooperation in this ongoing battle.
The utility company urged the public to be on alert against alleged service providers offering reduced or unlimited electricity by meter tampering methods.
Landlords should also be diligent when renting out premises, ensuring the electricity account is transferred to tenants to avoid any implication in power theft activities.
Sarawak Energy’s inspection teams are able to detect various electricity theft techniques such as tampered meters, fake electricity meter covers, underground direct tapping and signs of tampering on smart meters.
Anyone with knowledge of electricity theft activity is encouraged to step forward and contact Sarawak Energy’s customer care centre at 1300-88-3111 or email customercare@sarawakenergy.com. All information received will be kept strictly confidential.