Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB)’s operations arm, Syarikat Sesco Berhad (Sesco), has reported over 260 incidents of power theft linked to cryptocurrency mining since 2018, resulting in significant financial losses. The utility corporation estimates these thefts have led to nearly RM4 million in stolen electricity every month.
In a statement released yesterday, SEB detailed their ongoing campaign to address the severe dangers and legal repercussions of electricity theft, with a particular focus on cracking down on cryptocurrency miners in Miri and other cities across Sarawak.
“A recent case involves a raid on a cryptocurrency miner operating in a two-storey shophouse at Pujut 7, Miri following alerts from members of the public,” the statement read. During this raid, 17 mining servers were discovered with direct-tapping cables connected from the shophouse’s main electrical wiring to the server room through the five-foot way.
The raid revealed burn marks around the cables, indicating a serious fire hazard that could damage nearby properties and endanger lives. The cables were immediately seized, and a police report was lodged to facilitate further investigation.
SEB issued a stark reminder to the public about the dangers and consequences of stealing electricity for cryptocurrency mining. “The high electricity consumption and heat generated from this activity can easily cause fires, damage electrical appliances, result in loss of lives and disrupt supply to neighbouring premises,” the statement said. Offenders caught engaging in such activities face severe penalties under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, which provides for a fine of up to RM200,000 and/or a maximum of five years imprisonment upon conviction.
Landlords were also urged to exercise caution when renting out their properties to avoid potential involvement in unlawful activities. SEB advised that electricity accounts should be registered under the tenant’s name to mitigate the risk of being implicated in electricity theft.
In addition, the public was cautioned to be wary of individuals offering to reduce their electricity bills, as this could indicate involvement in illegal electricity usage. SEB emphasized that those caught in such illegal activities would face serious legal consequences.
“The Sesco’s technical team is highly trained and equipped with the necessary tools to detect various methods of electricity theft, including innovative techniques,” SEB stated. Individuals with information related to electricity theft are encouraged to report it to SEB through its Customer Care Centre number 1-300-88-3111 or by emailing customercare@sarawakenergy.com. SEB assured that all information provided would be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
This intensified effort by SEB highlights the ongoing battle against electricity theft, aiming to safeguard public safety and ensure the integrity of the power supply across Sarawak. With the increasing prevalence of cryptocurrency mining, SEB’s actions underscore the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in addressing this illegal activity.