{
  "id": 5017065,
  "title": "Bitcoin mining syndicate busted after empty shop lots turned into illegal operations",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/02/bitcoin-mining-syndicate-busted-after-empty-shop-lots-turned-into",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-02T04:57:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Vibes",
    "slug": "the-vibes",
    "url": "https://www.thevibes.com/articles/news/126854/bitcoin-mining-syndicate-busted-after-empty-shop-lots-turned-into-illegal-operations"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Perak police have dismantled a Bitcoin mining syndicate that was operating from vacant shop lots in the state, seizing 168 mining machines and related equipment. The operation, which took place on Monday, involved raids at four locations in Perak – Sungai Siput, Sungai Siput Parade, Taman SS2 Perdana, and Taman Alamanda. Police discovered that the syndicate was using unauthorized electricity connections to power the mining operations. Three premises were in Sungai Siput, while another was in Perak Tengah. A 39-year-old caretaker was detained at Taman Alamanda, unaware of the mining activities taking place. Initial investigations identified 36 mining machines at a Seri Iskandar location, where no TNB-supplied electricity meter was found, indicating an illegal connection. Police are still seeking the syndicate's owner and those involved in the electricity theft, while conducting further investigations under relevant laws.",
  "summary": "POLICE have busted a Bitcoin mining syndicate allegedly operating from vacant shoplots after raiding four premises in Perak and seizing 168 mining machines along with computer equipment and networking devices. Perak police chief Datuk Mohd Alwi Zaina...",
  "key_points": [
    "Perak police dismantle Bitcoin mining syndicate",
    "Seize 168 mining machines and equipment",
    "Three premises raided in Sungai Siput and Perak Tengah"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}