Russian Authorities Uncover Truck-Based Cryptocurrency Mining Operation in Buryatia
Discovery During Routine Inspection
Authorities in the Republic of Buryatia, Russia, have dismantled an illegal cryptocurrency mining operation utilizing a KamAZ truck that was illegally tapping into the power supply intended for a local village. This revelation came to light during a routine inspection of power lines in the Pribaikalsky District, where inspectors identified a suspicious setup drawing electricity from a 10-kilovolt line, enough to support the energy needs of a small community.
Upon further investigation, officials discovered 95 mining rigs along with a mobile transformer contained within the truck. Two individuals, who are believed to be connected to this operation, reportedly fled the scene in a sports utility vehicle (SUV) before law enforcement arrived.
Increasing Incidents of Power Theft
This incident marks the sixth case of electricity theft associated with cryptocurrency mining reported in Buryatia since the beginning of 2025. Rosseti Siberia’s Buryatenergo division has issued warnings regarding the detrimental impacts of illegal electricity connections, which can lead to serious disruptions in local power grids—causing voltage drops, system overloads, and even potential blackouts for residents.
Cryptocurrency Mining Regulations in Buryatia
In an effort to control the energy consumption associated with cryptocurrency mining, Buryatia has established strict regulations. Mining is prohibited across the majority of the region from November 15 to March 15 each year due to energy shortages. Only registered entities are permitted to conduct mining activities in certain designated districts like Severo-Baikalsky and Muisky during this timeframe.
Broader Federal Restrictions on Mining
The crackdown on illegal mining activities in Buryatia aligns with broader federal regulations aimed at curtailing crypto mining across Russia. In December 2024, the government announced a comprehensive ban on mining operations during peak energy months, affecting several regions including Dagestan, Chechnya, and parts of eastern Ukraine under Russian control. The southern Irkutsk region has seen a full ban on crypto mining since April 2025, a move that affects major mining firms reliant on low-cost electricity, such as BitRiver, which launched the region’s first and largest data center in Bratsk in 2019. ### Conclusion
The recent uncovering of the truck-based crypto mining operation in Buryatia serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict between the burgeoning cryptocurrency mining industry and the regulatory frameworks designed to manage energy consumption. As authorities continue to clamp down on illegal operations, the local power supply and the potential for blackouts remain critical points of concern for both residents and officials.
This incident not only highlights the persistent challenges of energy management in regions accommodating mining but also reflects a growing national effort to enforce compliance among cryptocurrency miners across Russia.