Bruneian authorities have discovered and dismantled an illegal cryptocurrency mining operation that was allegedly using an unauthorized power supply. A local man has been arrested in connection with the operation, with enforcement seizing various assets such as crypto mining equipment and Bitcoin mining devices. The operation has been characterized as an electricity theft scheme for powering mining rigs.
Coordinated Enforcement Operation
As part of a broader strategy, the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) spearheaded the enforcement action. Along with other law enforcement partners, the RBPF uncovered the operation. Included in these partners were the Limau Manis and Sengkurong Police Stations, Digital Forensic Unit, and Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Additionally involved were the Department of Electrical Services, Internal Security Department (ISD), Department of Energy PMO, and Autoriti Elektrik Negara Brunei Darussalam (AEBD). The collaboration of all these agencies exemplifies the complexity of the investigation and enforcement activities regarding the mining operation.
Simultaneous Strategic Location Raids
Illegal mining activities consolidated in geographic areas were combated using multiple coordinated enforcement actions comprising simultaneous raids. One of the suspected illegal mining sites was the Sangai-Sangai Industrial Site along Jalan Sangai-Sangai Burong Lepas in Kampong Bengkurong. Another raid target was Lugu Light Industrial Area within Mukim Sengkurong. Most law enforcement agencies around the world do this to minimize the risk of losing other potential evidence and individuals who might be tied to the operation.
Investigation Findings on Electricity Theft
Perhaps the most critical element of the illegal operation was discovered during the investigation conducted by the authorities. During the Investigation, it was discovered that power is being stolen from the legitimate supply network without authorization. The electricity that is being siphoned off is used to power a collection of ultra-high-capacity mining machines. These machines are put to work exclusively for the purpose of cryptocurrency generation.
Following the discovery and subsequent raids, all evidence pertaining to the illegal crypto-mining operation, along with the electricity theft, has been seized by the authorities. A detailed analysis of the seized equipment and other pieces of evidence is, however, expected to shed additional light concerning the operational specifics and scope.
Legal Ramifications and Notice to the Public
A local man who was arrested in relation to the dismantled operation is currently under investigation for the Electricity Act. This investigation looks into the alleged acts of misappropriation and willful negligence of the electricity supply as an unauthorized user as well as not having the requisite permission. Under the law of Brunei, the act of depriving a supply of electric current is regarded as a serious crime. This type of activity poses a risk to public safety and property because of some alterations that are willfully made to the electrical systems, which are dangerous and unsafe.
RBPF has, on several occasions, stated. Authorities have warned that people who are proven guilty will face prosecution without hesitation. The misuse of illegal mining laudable activity, is reported to police or publicized to go to any police post or deal with the emergency number 993, there for the immediate action has been made, called the emergency police with no delay and got down to action.
