Paraguayan authorities continue their efforts to combat illegal cryptocurrency mining. In a recent large-scale operation, 693 Bitcoin mining machines were seized.
Raid and Discovery
In a large-scale operation in Hernandarias city, the National Power Administration of Paraguay (ANDE) discovered and seized 693 illegal Bitcoin mining machines. The raid took place in a concealed shed where operators had tampered with the electricity meter to significantly reduce their reported power usage.
Technical Details of the Operation
The discovery of the illegal operation was made possible by the use of advanced SCADA systems. These systems allowed ANDE technicians to closely monitor the area’s power consumption and detect anomalies. Data revealed that the actual power load of the mining farm was a staggering 2,151 kW, while the meter registered only 749.5 kW. By manipulating the meter, the operators managed to cut their energy costs by 65%, resulting in significant financial losses for the power administration.
Legal Measures and Consequences
ANDE officials estimate that this illegal operation caused approximately $60,000 in monthly losses. This amount, along with other fines, will be recovered through legal proceedings. The Paraguayan government has recently strengthened its stance against energy theft with new legislation that imposes penalties of up to 10 years in prison for those involved in such crimes. Recently, another major energy theft case in Paraguay resulted in the conviction of a cryptocurrency farm owner, who was sentenced to 18 months in prison for causing over $1.5 million in losses.
The case highlights the growing challenges faced by countries like Paraguay in regulating and controlling the rise of cryptocurrency mining, particularly when it comes to illegal operations exploiting public resources.
Comments