Sarawak Energy said Syarikat Sesco Berhad (Sesco) has also recorded more than 260 cases of power theft by cryptocurrency miners in the past six years.

“Sarawak Energy’s campaign on the dangers and legal repercussions of electricity theft continues amid intensified efforts to crack down on offenders, particularly targeting cryptocurrency miners in Miri and other cities across Sarawak,” it said, The Borneo Post reported.

The energy company said a recent case was uncovered at a two-storey shophouse in Pujut 7, Miri, following a tip-off. After raiding the premises, it discovered that 17 mining servers were directly tapping from the shophouse’s main electrical wiring.

“The high electricity consumption and heat generated from this activity can easily cause fires, damage electrical appliances, result in loss of lives and disrupt supply to neighbouring premises,” it said, adding that police reports were lodged.

Sarawak Energy advised landlords to be careful when renting out their properties to safeguard themselves against potential illegal activities by tenants.

“Electricity accounts should be registered under the tenant’s name to mitigate the risk of being implicated in electricity theft,” it said.

It said offenders may be charged under Section 33(5) of the Electricity Ordinance, which carries a penalty of up to RM200,000 or a maximum of five years’ jail, or both, if convicted.