NEWS & UPDATE

MARUDI
29 JULY 2025

Sarawak Energy, through its operations and retail arm Syarikat SESCO Berhad (SESCO), recently uncovered a case of electricity theft involving cryptocurrency mining at an abandoned wooden house in Lubok Nibong, Marudi.

The property was hidden deep in a remote area in an attempt to deliberately avoid detection. However, the illegal operation was exposed during routine inspection works by SESCO’s technical team. Further investigations discovered direct tapping cables illegally connected from a nearby overhead pole, bypassing the meter and supplying electricity to three cryptocurrency mining servers.

All mining equipment on site was seized, and a police report has been lodged. The individuals responsible may face severe consequences under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, which carries fines of up to RM200,000 and/or imprisonment for up to five years upon conviction.

Electricity theft linked to cryptocurrency mining operations poses a growing threat to the power grid. These unauthorised connections significantly overload the system, risking power disruptions to nearby homes and businesses. Such setups are also highly dangerous as they can cause fires, damage electrical equipment and endanger lives.

As part of its continuous anti-power theft efforts, Sarawak Energy actively monitors abandoned properties and rural locations. Inspection teams are trained and equipped to detect various forms of electricity theft.

Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious activities related to electricity supply. Reports can be made anonymously via Sarawak Energy’s Customer Care Centre at 1300-88-3111, by email at customercare@sarawakenergy.com or through the SEB cares mobile app. All information provided will be treated in strict confidence.

The seemingly abandoned wooden house where the power theft and cryptocurrency mining took place.

Direct tapping cables going into the room where the cryptocurrency mining servers are located.

Cryptocurrency mining servers located in the premises, operated using stolen electricity.