IPOH: Cryptocurrency mining operations that steal power usually occur in densely-populated areas or near industrial zones where electricity consumption is high to conceal their activity, say police.

       Perak police chief Comm Datuk Mior Faridalathrash Wahid said another sign of a mining operation taking place is an "exhaust fan" protruding from the premises.

       "It is part of the modus operandi, the pipe is part of the cooling system for their mining machines," he told a press conference after attending the state police contingent's monthly gathering at the Police Air Wing unit training base here on Tuesday (Jan 4).

       "We are working closely with Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) to curtail these operations that are stealing electricity and disrupting other users," he said.

       "TNB can detect when the usage of electricity is higher than normal," he added.

       Comm Mior Faridalathrash said he hoped the public would forward information on any suspected electricity theft from such mining operations to the police.

       "I also hope the media can assist us as well," he said.

       Separately, he said the investigation into the Mara Junior Science College (MRSM) student bullying case has been completed.

       He said the investigation papers have been submitted to the deputy public prosecutor's office and police are waiting for instructions.

       "All statements have been taken and we have made recommendations to the DPP's office and will wait for a decision from them," he said.

       An MRSM student being bullied by his peers was captured on video and the clip went viral last month, sparking nationwide outrage.

       Majlis Amanah Rakyat has also expelled 10 students who allegedly bullied the victim.