Venezuelan Police Seize Bitcoin Mining Hardware and Dangerous Weapons
The Venezuelan Police recaptured the Tocoron prison, which had been under the control of inmates, and seized Bitcoin mining hardware along with dangerous weapons. The raid involved over 11,000 police and soldiers who discovered not only Bitcoin mining equipment but also machine gun ammunition belts, bullets, snipers, explosives, and rocket launchers. The facility had been turned into a “little city” by the Tren de Aragua gang, complete with a nightclub, swimming pool, zoo, and casino. President Maduro praised the successful intervention and stated that Venezuela is moving towards a gang-free society.
Operation Results in One Soldier’s Death
During the operation to retake control of the prison, one soldier lost their life. Interior and Justice Minister Remigio Ceballos emphasized that all criminals and accomplices must face justice without impunity. The wives or girlfriends of the inmates were removed from the facility. Tragically, zoo animals housed in the prison died due to fires caused by the prisoners.
The Venezuelan Mining Situation
Mining has gained popularity in Venezuela due to subsidized power and high inflation rates. As mining became cheaper in the country compared to other places, more miners migrated to Venezuela, putting strain on the national power grid. The government has banned crypto mining activities in an attempt to reduce electricity blackouts. However, there are reports that mining continues to occur in the country despite the ban. The recently seized mining hardware was identified as older versions of Bitmain’s Antminers.
Global Crackdowns on Mining
In various jurisdictions globally, governments have cracked down on mining operations citing climate and energy concerns. Similar crackdowns have occurred due to pressure on power grids caused by increased mining activities. While Venezuela has also taken steps to limit mining, the extent of ongoing mining remains unknown.
Hot Take: Venezuelan Authorities Seize Bitcoin Mining Hardware and Weapons in Tocoron Prison
The Venezuelan Police have successfully retaken control of the Tocoron prison from inmates belonging to the Tren de Aragua gang. Alongside Bitcoin mining hardware, dangerous weapons such as rocket launchers and explosives were seized during the operation. The gang had transformed the prison into a “little city” with various amenities. President Maduro praised the intervention and expressed his commitment to eliminating criminal gangs. However, one soldier lost their life in the operation. The incident highlights the growing popularity of mining in Venezuela, despite government attempts to curb it. This situation mirrors global crackdowns on mining activities due to energy concerns.
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