18 Mining Rigs Seized in Sukhumi Within 24 Hours: Police Ramp Up Inspections

According to “Vestnik Kavkaza,” 18 mining machines were located and confiscated in Abkhazia’s capital over the span of one day as part of an ongoing crackdown on illicit crypto mining. The equipment was discovered in four different premises, including basements and attics of residential buildings. Law enforcement officials filed reports and detained the device owners, suspected of electricity theft.

Ministry of Internal Affairs specialists note that Abkhazia previously imposed a temporary mining ban, later partially lifted, leading to a resurgence of unregulated activities. Authorities estimate that there may be several hundred unregistered devices across the region, each consuming 1.5–2 kWh. Collectively, they place substantial strain on the local power network.

The existing infrastructure struggles with such demand, prompting daily blackouts in numerous districts. In response, Sukhumi’s administration plans to intensify monitoring and conduct regular raids. Officials anticipate making these operations weekly and aim to tighten penalties for unauthorized mining by the end of 2025.