Thai officials expose illicit Bitcoin mining farm engaged in extensive Baht electricity embezzlement scandal
An undercover Bitcoin [BTC] mining operation in Chonburi, Thailand, has been dismantled following the discovery of a significant electricity embezzlement plot. Nearly 1,000 mining rigs were confiscated during the crackdown, shedding light on the magnitude of the unlawful operation.
The operation was illegally diverting electricity on a massive scale, sparking concerns regarding the strain it placed on Thailand’s power infrastructure and the wider repercussions within its expanding digital currency landscape.
Thai authorities reveal large-scale electricity embezzlement plot
The Crime Suppression Division (CSD) of Thailand in collaboration with the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) unveiled an unlawful Bitcoin mining activity in Chonburi.
The raid took place at a facility in Phanat Nikhom after evidence surfaced indicating that the establishment had manipulated its power meter to steal electric power.
The electricity theft predominantly occurred during nighttime to evade detection, while during the day, the power meter functioned as usual. This cunning tactic enabled the operation to mine Bitcoin without incurring significant electricity expenses.
The authorities accused the culprits of pilfering substantial amounts of electricity to fuel the mining machines, with the unlawful activity being exposed by a team headed by Pol Maj Gen Montree Theskhan, the CSD commander.
Multi-million-dollar operation strains Thailand’s power grid
Staff member discloses nocturnal embezzlement, perpetrators still at large
An employee at the facility confessed that the electricity theft solely took place at night, utilizing a tampered power meter to mask the energy consumption of the operation. However, the identity of the company or individuals orchestrating the scheme remains unknown.
The CSD has declared intentions to obtain court warrants to trace and apprehend those responsible for the illegal mining operation. This incident underscores the escalating necessity for rigorous regulations and supervision of cryptocurrency mining in Thailand.