British Police Discover Illegal Crypto Mining Operation During Raid

On May 27, police officers in the United Kingdom reported an unexpected outcome during a raid in an industrial area near Birmingham. Expecting to uncover a cannabis farm, they instead found a cryptocurrency mining operation.

The mining equipment was set up on a dedicated stand and included a custom ventilation system. An investigation with local power company specialists revealed that the crypto farm’s owners had illegally connected to the power grid, stealing electricity worth several thousand pounds.

How the Operation Was Discovered

The police raid was prompted by tips from local residents who noticed suspicious individuals frequently unloading items from a van at the site. Officers also used a drone to survey the area, detecting high heat emissions typical of cannabis cultivation, which led them to suspect an illegal grow operation.

Police Actions and Aftermath

Police disconnected the mining equipment from the power supply and confiscated all hardware. The suspects managed to leave the premises before the raid and were not apprehended. Officers questioned the property owner but did not file any charges against them.

Photos from the scene showed that the mining operation used rather outdated equipment, which appeared poorly maintained and covered in dust and dirt. The illegal power connection and makeshift ventilation system contributed to the initial suspicion of a cannabis farm.

The perpetrators also cut corners on cable management and installation, with everything set up just to keep the operation running, regardless of safety or organization.