The SSU is acting to counter potential threats to Ukraine’s energy security. In an operation in Odesa, the SSU dismantled a clandestine cryptocurrency mining farm that stole vast volumes of electricity from a state-owned critical infrastructure facility.

The unlawful activity could have led to emergencies in the transport sector, including in railway transportation.

Besides, the elimination of this illegal business prevented budget losses of millions of UAH.

According to the investigation, the center was organized by two residents of the region. Technological equipment for mining digital currency was installed in a rented warehouse in the city.

The offenders converted part of the proceeds into foreign currency and transferred it abroad via third parties. They kept the rest of the digital money in their own virtual wallets.

The investigators established that the group powered the specialized equipment through an unauthorized connection to the state electricity network.

During the search of the warehouse and organizers’ homes, the law enforcement found:

• over 100 items of computer and cryptocurrency mining equipment;
• communication devices with evidence of illegal activity.

The seized items have been sent for forensic examination.

A pre-trial investigation is underway to establish all the circumstances of the offence and bring the involved to justice.

The SSU Office in Odesa region carried out the operation under the supervision of Odessa Region Prosecutor’s Office.