Ukrainian Official Accused of Illegal Cryptocurrency Mining

The head of a municipal enterprise in Chernihiv has been accused of stealing electricity for cryptocurrency mining and other illicit enrichment schemes. This was reported by the National Police of Ukraine.

Law enforcement discovered a mining farm in a technical room behind the elevator on the premises of the municipal enterprise. According to the investigation, the official had illegally connected it to the power grid. For at least a year, he earned around $1300 monthly.

During searches, ASIC miners, documentation, and rough notes with calculations of illegal profits were seized.

The official is also suspected of collaborating with colleagues to profit from leasing property to an affiliated company at prices artificially lowered by 10-15 times. This company, in turn, subleased the premises at market rates. The income was distributed among the scheme’s participants.

The individual faces up to six years in prison, a ban on holding certain positions, and a fine.

The investigation is ongoing.

Back in November 2023, employees of the NABU detained a Ukrainian MP attempting to bribe a government official with bitcoins.