2,700 Mining Rigs Seized in St. Petersburg Crackdown

Russian police have dismantled several illegal cryptocurrency mining farms in St. Petersburg, seizing over 2,700 devices used to steal electricity worth millions of rubles.

Police dismantle major illegal mining network

Law enforcement officers in St. Petersburg have dismantled a large network of illegal cryptocurrency mining farms.
According to Russian Interior Ministry spokesperson Irina Volk, police confiscated more than 2,700 mining machines during coordinated raids.

Investigators found that the suspects had set up a fraudulent power connection at a commercial site. From March 2018 to August 2025, they tampered with electricity meters to underreport consumption, siphoning off energy for crypto mining while avoiding payment.

Criminal charges and ongoing investigation

The suspects were detained with the assistance of the Russian National Guard at their residences in St. Petersburg and the Leningrad region.
Authorities opened a criminal case under Article 165, Part 2 of the Russian Criminal Code, covering property damage through deception or abuse of trust.

One suspect was placed under restricted movement, while two others were ordered to appear before investigators when summoned.
Police continue to search for additional individuals who may have been involved in operating the mining farms.

Illegal mining on the rise across Russia

Experts warn that cases of illegal crypto mining have surged in Russia amid rising profitability in the sector.
Energy companies, including Rosseti, have called for stricter penalties, arguing that power theft for mining strains regional grids and undermines energy stability.
Authorities say that introducing clear mining regulations could help legalize the industry and attract responsible investors.