Interior minister: crackdown on illegal crypto mining will continue after seizure of 330 machines

Georgia's Interior Minister Sulkhan Tamazashvili has said police operations targeting illegal cryptocurrency mining activities in Mestia will continue after authorities seized a total of 330 mining machines during an ongoing investigation.

Speaking during a working meeting at the Mestia District Police Division on Tuesday, Tamazashvili said law enforcement agencies would continue efforts to identify other individuals allegedly involved in violations related to energy consumption and take appropriate legal action against them.

According to the Interior Ministry, the minister received updates on crime prevention measures and the investigation into alleged breaches of energy usage regulations, which has resulted in the confiscation of 330 cryptocurrency mining devices.

Tamazashvili visited Mestia alongside First Deputy Interior Minister Roni Meskhi. The meeting was also attended by Irakli Pipia and other senior police officials.

During his visit to Zemo Svaneti, the minister also inspected units of the Special Tasks Department, the Fire and Rescue Service and the Border Police, where he reviewed infrastructure and working conditions. He additionally met officers from the Security Police and Patrol Police departments serving in the municipality.

The minister thanked personnel for their service and reiterated the ministry's commitment to continuing enforcement efforts related to the ongoing investigation.