Perak police bust illegal bitcoin mining operation amid power theft probe

IPOH — Perak police have dismantled an illegal bitcoin mining operation, confiscating 48 mining machines during a raid conducted in Seri Iskandar on November 11. The seizure came as part of an investigation into suspected electricity theft at the location. Authorities discovered the cryptocurrency mining equipment being operated without proper authorization, with investigators finding evidence of significant power consumption diverted from official supply lines. The machines, which require substantial electrical power to function, had been generating cryptocurrency while consuming electricity in excess of recorded usage patterns. Police have referred the case to relevant authorities to determine charges related to power theft and illegal mining operations. The raid highlights growing concerns among Malaysian authorities regarding unlicensed cryptocurrency mining operations that circumvent official channels and create potential safety and environmental hazards through excessive power consumption.