NEWS & UPDATES

SIBU
26 AUGUST 2024

Sarawak Energy, through its operational and retail arm, Syarikat SESCO Berhad (SESCO), recently collaborated with local law enforcement on a case involving electricity theft at a three-storey shophouse at Lorong Bukit Assek, Sibu.

The joint raid on the shophouse, conducted by SESCO’s meter inspection unit and the Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM), found direct tapping cables illegally diverting electricity to 27 cryptocurrency mining servers via the five-footway.

The individuals involved will be investigated under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance. If found guilty, they could face fines of up to RM200,000 and/or a maximum prison term of five (5) years.

The exercise is part of ongoing efforts to address electricity theft associated with cryptocurrency mining, a growing concern in Sarawak despite the low electricity tariffs. Twenty three cases have been detected across Sarawak from January to August 2024, with 532 cryptocurrency mining servers seized. Power theft by cryptocurrency operators is estimated to have resulted in a loss of RM8.36 million for Sarawak Energy this year.

Electricity theft is dangerous and can lead to fires, damage to electrical appliances, and loss of lives due to unsafe wiring. The high energy demand from illegal cryptocurrency mining can also overload electrical systems, causing outages in local areas and putting their neighbours in danger.

Given that illegal activities are often concealed in abandoned or vacant properties, Sarawak Energy will continue to collaborate closely with the relevant authorities to monitor these locations and conduct regular inspections to prevent recurrence of electricity theft.

Landlords of rented properties are advised to thoroughly vet tenants and perform regular property checks, particularly for unoccupied properties, as they can be held accountable for illegal activities committed by their tenants. Tenants should also be vigilant for signs of unauthorised electrical installations at rented premises.

Sarawak Energy is committed to ensuring public safety and security. Its SESCO technical team is highly skilled and equipped with advanced tools to detect various methods of electricity theft, including new and innovative techniques.

The public is encouraged to report any information regarding electricity theft and suspected locations to Sarawak Energy. Reports can be made by calling the Customer Care Centre at 1300-88-3111 or by emailing customercare@sarawakenergy.com. All information will be treated with strict confidentiality.

Direct tapping cable concealed behind the incoming mains at the five-foot way.

Exposed direct tapping cable (indicated by the red arrow), which was hidden behind the incoming mains.

Direct tapping cables running from the ground floor to the first floor.

Cryptocurrency mining servers discovered on-site.

Cryptocurrency mining servers confiscated by the authorities.