Illegal Crypto Mining Operation Uncovered in Russia Amid Regulatory Crackdown
Russian authorities in the Republic of Buryatia discovered an illicit cryptocurrency mining operation inside a KAMAZ truck on June 11. The setup, connected to a 10 kilovolt power line without authorization, contained 95 mining devices and a transformer substation capable of powering an entire village. Two suspects fled the scene before inspectors arrived.
This marks the sixth electricity theft case linked to crypto mining in Buryatia as Russian officials prepare stricter penalties for such activities. Confiscated equipment will face legal proceedings while regulators emphasize lawful mining pathways. "The cheapest legal mining conditions will emerge in Khakassia by 2025," noted one analyst, referencing projected costs of 162,000 rubles monthly for 6,000 kWh consumption.
