In Transbaikalia, regional units of the FSB and Ministry of Internal Affairs are searching for individuals involved in illegal mining activities that caused damage to a uranium mining enterprise. The case concerns a discovered mining farm whose ownership is currently unknown, and the unauthorized connection of equipment to PPGHO's power networks.
Illegal Mining Incident in Transbaikalia
A mining farm was previously found, with owners remaining unidentified. According to available information, specialized equipment was connected to PPGHO's power grids, enabling unmetered electricity consumption.
According to the enterprise's estimates, the damage caused amounts to 5 million rubles. This information has prompted further procedural actions by law enforcement agencies.
Law Enforcement Response
The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia for the Transbaikalia region has initiated a criminal case under Part 2, Article 165 of the Russian Criminal Code, which provides liability for causing property damage. Regional units of the FSB and Ministry of Internal Affairs are involved in the investigation, conducting searches to identify those responsible.
The issue of illegal electricity consumption and mining has also been raised in other regions, as can be read, for example, in the article about how a farm was shut down in Saint Petersburg and in the article about cases of electricity theft. These publications provide insight into law enforcement's practical approaches to such incidents.
PPGHO and Its Significance
PAO "Priargunskoye Production Mining and Chemical Association" is a city-forming enterprise for Krasnokamensk and is part of the state corporation Rosatom. The enterprise is considered one of the largest uranium mining companies worldwide and the largest in Russia, which explains the heightened attention to this incident.
Why This Matters
For miners in Russia, this case primarily serves as a reminder of the risks associated with unauthorized connections to others' power grids. Illegal use of networks belonging to large industrial enterprises attracts the attention of law enforcement agencies, and in this case, a criminal case has already been initiated under the article on property damage.
Moreover, the incident highlights that damages to large enterprises can be substantial, increasing the likelihood of serious investigations and confiscations. Even small miners should consider that issues of metering and legality of energy consumption remain key during inspections.
What to Do?
- Verify the legality of your power source: do not connect to others' or industrial grids without the owner's consent and proper agreements.
- Arrange official contracts and meters for energy consumption if you operate multiple devices or a farm at home.
- Keep records of equipment and electricity usage, and retain purchase and operation documents—this will help in disputes with regulatory authorities.
- If in doubt, consult a lawyer regarding commercial electricity consumption and possible criminal and administrative liabilities.
- Follow official law enforcement publications about investigations and consumer requirements to ensure your activities comply with the law.