Malaysian authorities continue their crackdown on illegal electricity usage related to Bitcoin mining. A recent video shows local police destroying 985 Bitcoin mining machines worth $452,500 using a steamroller.
Introduction
In the ongoing effort to combat illegal electricity use tied to cryptocurrency mining, Malaysian authorities have taken stringent actions. Recently, 985 Bitcoin mining machines worth approximately 1.98 million Malaysian ringgit ($452,500) were destroyed following a court order.
Scale of the Problem
These machines were seized during various enforcement operations between 2022 and April 2023. This move highlights Malaysia's firm stance on tackling illegal Bitcoin mining operations linked to electricity theft. Deputy Minister of Energy and Water Transformation Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir revealed that between 2018 and 2023, cryptocurrency miners in Malaysia stole RM3.4 billion ($777 million) worth of electricity.
Government Measures
The recent enforcement actions are part of a broader campaign against power theft in Malaysia, primarily related to Bitcoin mining operations. Last week, the Sepang district administration arrested seven individuals for electricity theft in cryptocurrency mining operations. Following China's ban on cryptocurrency mining in 2021, many operations have shifted to Southeast Asia, where countries like Malaysia offer competitive electricity prices and favorable infrastructure, making them a hotspot for illegal cryptocurrency mining activities.
These measures underscore the seriousness and determination of the Malaysian government to combat illegal cryptocurrency mining operations and associated electricity theft, serving as a warning to other potential offenders.
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