PLN Addresses Alleged Electricity Theft by Crypto Mining Operation in Bekasi Shophouse
A shophouse in Tambun Selatan, Bekasi Regency, has been dismantled after it was discovered allegedly stealing electricity to power a cryptocurrency mining operation. PT PLN confirmed that its Tambun Customer Service Unit carried out an enforcement action regarding power usage at the shophouse.
“This activity was conducted based on suspected electricity misuse, which originated from reports by residents and local officials during a building inspection,” said Darry Giovanno, Manager of Communications and TJSL at PLN UID West Java, on Friday.
He explained that after discovering suspicious conditions at the shophouse, the information was forwarded to PLN officers on duty nearby for the P2TL team to follow up according to procedure. The enforcement action took place on Tuesday.
“During the inspection, officers found an installation suspected of being used for crypto asset mining activities with an illegal electricity connection directly linked to the PLN network without a kWh meter,” he said.
Darry stated that PLN’s actions focused on addressing the electricity violation. The shophouse is suspected of stealing up to 33,000 volt amperes of electricity. “Regarding sanctions, they will certainly be imposed according to P2TL regulations,” he added.
Meanwhile, the handling of the suspected crypto asset mining activities and other alleged violations falls under the authority of law enforcement officials. PLN reiterated its commitment to maintaining reliable electricity supply and urged the public to use electricity legally and report any suspected misuse through the PLN Mobile application or the PLN 123 contact centre.
Police are also investigating the case. Video footage showed the shophouse being dismantled because it stood on a pavement in Tambun Selatan, Bekasi Regency. “We are currently looking into it,” said AKBP Jerico Levian, Head of Criminal Investigation at the Bekasi Metro Police.
Police are conducting an in-depth investigation into the allegations. “We are still investigating. We will provide updates soon,” he concluded. The circulating video showed various electrical equipment inside the shophouse, including several MCBs still connected to electricity. The building was described as an illegal Bitcoin mine, with the room temperature noted as hot. According to PLN officers’ checks, the Bitcoin mine was using 33,000 volt amperes of electricity obtained illegally.