Thai officials have dismantled a large-scale Bitcoin mining farm accused of stealing electricity worth hundreds of millions of baht. The raid, conducted by Thailand’s Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) and the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), uncovered an illegal operation in Chonburi’s Phanat Nikhom district, seizing 996 Bitcoin mining rigs in the process.
The investigation revealed that the operators had tampered with electricity meters to power the energy-intensive mining process without paying, resulting in significant financial losses for the Thai state electricity provider. The illicit setup was designed to operate discreetly, with theft occurring only at night while meters functioned normally during the day to avoid raising suspicions.
Bitcoin mining, which involves solving complex mathematical problems to validate transactions and create new coins, is notoriously energy-intensive. The high operational costs, particularly for electricity, have led some operators to resort to illegal tactics to maximize profits.
Authorities are working to identify those behind the operation, with the CSD seeking court approval for arrest warrants. While the individuals responsible remain at large, the PEA and law enforcement are determined to hold them accountable for the losses incurred.
This case serves as a reminder of the ethical and legal challenges posed by the growing adoption of cryptocurrency and its associated activities.
