NEWS & UPDATE

MIRI
16 JANUARY 2025

In collaboration with the police, Sarawak Energy’s operations and retail arm, Syarikat SESCO Berhad (SESCO) recently uncovered another case of electricity theft in Miri, linked to cryptocurrency mining operations.

A tenant of a rented single-storey property in Vistana Perdana was found to be operating cryptocurrency mining servers powered by an illegal electricity supply connection. Direct tapping cables were found to have been used to bypass the electricity meter, resulting in an estimated monthly loss of RM4,500. SESCO’s team dismantled the illegal installation and six cryptocurrency servers were seized by the authorities as evidence. A police report has been lodged and both the landlord and tenant are under investigation.

Illegal electricity connections pose serious safety risks, including the potential for fires, electrocution and damage to infrastructure due to unregulated and faulty wiring. These unauthorised connections can also lead to power disruptions, creating further risks and inconvenience for neighbouring areas.

In 2024, 48 cases of electricity theft linked to cryptocurrency mining were recorded in Miri, contributing to a total of 56 cases reported across Sarawak. These illegal activities have resulted in financial losses of more than RM20 million.

Offenders found guilty under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance may face penalties of up to RM200,000 in fines and/or five years imprisonment. Sarawak Energy will continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that offenders are prosecuted.

Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious activities related to electricity theft. Reports can be made anonymously by contacting Sarawak Energy’s Customer Care Centre at 1300-88-3111 or emailing customercare@sarawakenergy.com. All information will be kept strictly confidential.

The operations team inspecting the incoming mains for direct tapping cables.

The location of the incoming mains outside the premise, with direct tapping cables hidden behind it.

Close-up view of the direct tapping cable.

Direct tapping cable from inside the house.

Cryptocurrency servers.

Seized cables and servers.