Seizure of Mining Machines in Paraguay

Authorities in Ciudad del Este, Paraguay, have seized 450 Bitcoin mining machines (ASICs) from a warehouse in the Caacupemi neighborhood of the Hernandarias district.

This latest operation brings the total number of seized mining equipment in the country to over 10,000 this year, matching Venezuela's tally. The 450 ASICs were discovered on the 26th in a mining farm uncovered by the National Electricity Administration (ANDE).

Ongoing Crackdown

With over 70 raids conducted thus far, Paraguay has solidified its position as a leading country in intercepting illicit Bitcoin mining operations.

An official statement revealed that ANDE authorities have uncovered what appears to be a storage facility for equipment and materials intended to construct cryptocurrency mining operations. Consequently, the power plant has formally requested a comprehensive investigation into this matter by the Public Prosecutor's Office.

Uncovering Hidden Equipment

Intriguingly, equipment that had previously vanished from another location was also discovered at the site, specifically at Estancia Santa Monica, situated at kilometer 46 along Route PY07.

A recent operation targeting a cryptocurrency mining facility failed when the owners, seemingly tipped off about the raid, absconded with the valuable ASIC processors before authorities arrived.

Legal Actions and Implications

Paraguayan authorities in Hernandarias have filed 20 criminal complaints related to illegal cryptocurrency mining activities in a separate development.

These investigations have led to the seizure of over 10,000 Bitcoin mining machines, a figure nearly equivalent to the total amount confiscated in Venezuela, based on official reports.

"Paraguay's massive hydropower potential, mainly from Itaipu, once attracted Bitcoin miners. However, a government crackdown on illegal mining farms has revealed widespread energy theft and possible official involvement."**

Impact on Bitcoin Miners

At the time of writing, miners' overall state needed to look positive. In the last week, the daily revenue collected by miners had fallen from $53 million to $34 million. This decline, coupled with regulatory scrutiny, could affect Bitcoin's price and hinder its current rally.