NEWS & UPDATES

MIRI
19 MARCH 2024

Sarawak Energy’s operational and retail arm Syarikat SESCO Berhad (SESCO), in collaboration with the Police, recently uncovered six cryptocurrency mining operations found to be involved in electricity theft in shophouses and residential homes in Pujut and Taman Boulevard, Miri over a two-day anti-power theft operation. The electricity theft was estimated to total up to RM80,000 per month in unbilled charges.

Over the two-days of the operation, the raiding team discovered hidden direct tapping cables above the ceilings in all the raided premises. These cables were used to bypass meters, enabling the illegal connection of electricity directly into the premises without detecting power consumption. More than 110 cryptocurrency mining servers were found onsite during the raids.

All direct tapping cables and servers uncovered were confiscated as evidence, and police reports were lodged to initiate investigations. The individuals involved will be called up to assist with the investigations and may face charges under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance. If found guilty, they may be fined up to RM200,000 and/or a maximum of five years imprisonment.

Although Sarawak has one of the most competitive tariffs in the region, the high energy demand of cryptocurrency mining often drives operators to resort to electricity theft to lower costs. In such cases, non-standard and unsafe wiring is commonly utilised, posing risks of fire, damage to electrical appliances, loss of life, and power supply disruptions to neighbouring properties.

Sarawak Energy remains committed to combating power theft and is working closely with the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication and the Police to intensify searches on cryptocurrency mining operations that are found stealing electricity.

The electricity provider also cautions the public against services promising cheaper electricity bills. SESCO’s technical teams are well-trained and have the necessary tools to detect all forms of electricity theft.

Landlords are advised to exercise caution when renting out properties to protect themselves from potential unlawful activities conducted by tenants. Meters should be registered under the tenant’s name to mitigate the risk of liability for electricity theft.

Individuals with information related to power-theft are encouraged to come forward and contact Sarawak Energy through its customer care centre at 1300-88-3111 or by emailing customercare@sarawakenergy.com. All information provided will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.

Direct tapping cables found hidden above the ceiling to avoid detection

Operation team uncovering direct tapping cables at one of the raided premises

Direct tapping cables found at one of the raided premises

More than 110 cryptocurrency mining servers were found during the two-day anti-power theft operation