According to ChainCatcher, reported by Cryptonews, the Abkhaz police have recently intensified their crackdown on private cryptocurrency miners, confiscating nearly 200 mining machines within four days. The Abkhaz State Security Service (SSS) carried out raids in cities like Ochamchira and Sukhumi between December 10 and 13, seizing 194 mining machines. The Ministry of Internal Affairs also confiscated 10 mining machines from Gudauta and Gagra districts.
Chornomor Energy Company head Timur Kinzhalia stated that despite the implementation of rolling blackouts, energy consumption has not decreased, indicating that cryptocurrency mining continues to consume a large amount of electricity. On December 10, an internet service provider suspended the network for seven hours in an attempt to alleviate the pressure on the power grid from mining. On December 11, the Inguri Hydropower Station was forced to suspend operations for 24 hours due to low water levels.
In addition, Abkhaz Acting Prime Minister Bigamba has called on the government to consider declaring a state of emergency in the energy sector.