KOTA KINABALU: The police are committed to assist the utility company Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB) to address the issue of power theft in Sabah.
Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) director Comm Datuk Seri Abd Jalil Hassan said power theft for bitcoin mining operations have become rampant in the country, including in the state.
As such, Comm Abd Jalil said the police, particularly the Sabah CID, has been actively cooperating with SESB to curb power theft for cryptocurrency mining since last year.
“A total of 13 raids through the Op Letrik integrated operation were conducted in 2021 while 21 more were held so far this year,” he said after an event in Tawau on Wednesday (Nov 23).
“The raids have been successful to curb power theft for bitcoin mining activities as well as lessening the losses incurred by SESB,” he added.
Comm Abd Jalil was speaking to reporters after a presentation ceremony of equipment by SESB to the Sabah police force to support in the fight against illegal cryptocurrency activities in the state.
The SESB contributed 15 computers, five laptops as well as other equipment amounting to RM120,000.
Meanwhile, SESB chief executive officer Mohd Yaakob Jaafar told reporters that the utility company hasincurred losses amounting to some RM16mil due to power thefts linked to cryptocurrency activities this year.
He said the losses were recorded between January and November, adding some of the illegal connections were detected in operations at 54 premises.
“We have identified numerous locations statewide where the illegal activities were carried out and further action is being taken as we speak. Through the integrated operation, we have also managed to detain an offender in the Tuaran district and who was later fined,” he said.
Comm Abd Jalil then issued a stern warning to individuals or groups who were carrying out power theft for cryptocurrency mining in the state to stop such activities.
He also warned the people to refrain from making illegal power connections at their homes, failing which they will risk severe action.
Comm Abd Jalil also thanked SESB for their contribution to the police, saying the equipment will be of help to the Sabah CID especially on efforts to curb illegal cryptocurrency activities.