Malaysia

Elderly man arrested for alleged electricity theft in Bitcoin mining operation

Police have arrested a 60-year-old man in Penang after uncovering an illicit Bitcoin mining operation powered by stolen electricity

Updated 10 months ago · Published on 07 Dec 2025 1:36PM

Elderly man arrested for alleged electricity theft in Bitcoin mining operation
Authorities state losses to the national utility company is estimated at nearly RM23,000 (Photo for illustration purposes only) - December 7, 2025

A 60-YEAR-OLD man has been arrested for allegedly stealing electricity to power a Bitcoin mining operation across several premises along Jalan Ayer Putih, Penang.

Southwest District Police Chief, ACP Anuwal Ab Wahab, confirmed the arrest, stating that a joint raid by police and Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) found the premises fitted with cryptocurrency mining machines connected to unauthorised power sources.

“Checks conducted by TNB revealed that the estimated losses from the electricity theft amounted to RM22,744,” he said.

Police also seized 30 Bitcoin mining machines, a box and a bag containing assorted wiring, and a TP-Link modem.

Anuwal said investigations are ongoing to identify additional individuals who may be involved in the operation.

The case is being investigated under Section 37(1) of the Electricity Supply Act 1990 and Section 427 of the Penal Code. - December 7, 2025

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