Thai authorities have cracked down on a cryptocurrency mining operation suspected of stealing electricity, leading to the seizure of over 650 mining devices valued at more than $5 million. The raid, conducted in Samut Sakhon and Ratchaburi provinces, targeted locations where unusually high electricity consumption had been reported.

Raid and Seizure

Acting on tip-offs regarding suspicious electricity usage, officials from Thailand's Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau and the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) obtained warrants and conducted raids at two locations. In Samut Sakhon, authorities discovered 187 crypto mining devices hidden within a temple compound, while a separate warehouse in Ratchaburi yielded another 465 devices, along with phones, computers, and tablets believed to be connected to the illegal mining operation.

Arrests and Confessions

Three individuals, identified as Sombat Tangnawadee, Kiatkongel Tumthong, and Somwang (last name unreported), were apprehended in connection with the operation. During questioning, all three confessed to managing the mining activities, which had been ongoing for approximately two months. They admitted to illegally importing the mining equipment from China with the intention of selling it to crypto miners.

Electricity Theft and Hosting Services

Investigators from the PEA found evidence of tampered electricity meters at both locations, indicating electricity theft amounting to an estimated $135,000. The suspects also provided hosting services for miners' machines, charging a monthly fee supposedly covering electricity costs.

Global Trend of Crackdowns

The crackdown on illegal crypto mining operations extends beyond Thailand. Recent raids in Russia and Malaysia targeted hidden mining facilities suspected of electricity theft. In Siberia, Russian authorities seized over 3,200 mining rigs from clandestine data centers, while Malaysia uncovered three covert mining operations operating out of shophouses and residences.

Conclusion

The bust of the crypto mining operation in Thailand underscores the authorities' commitment to combating electricity theft and illegal cryptocurrency activities. As global efforts to crack down on such operations intensify, perpetrators face increasing scrutiny and the risk of legal consequences.