25 Mining Rigs Found at Grain Depot in Karachay-Cherkessia

Inspectors in the Adyge-Khablsky District of Karachay-Cherkessia uncovered an illicit mining operation hidden within a grain depot. Officials counted 25 rigs siphoning electricity without proper metering. Experts estimate that unrecorded monthly consumption may have reached 40 thousand kWh.

Investigators report that the hardware was located underground: resourceful operators dug a cellar adjacent to the main grain storage area to minimize audible noise and visible heat. Preliminary figures show the power utility lost nearly 4.5 mln rubles in potential revenue. The regional administration is accelerating inspections, particularly in rural locations.

Local authorities note that “subterranean” setups are growing in popularity, complicating standard enforcement measures. Such hidden farms pose not only overload threats but also potential fire hazards in enclosed spaces, experts warn.