Tajikistan Imposes Criminal Penalties for Crypto Miners Using Stolen Power

The Tajikistan parliament has approved revisions to the Criminal Code, introducing Article 253(2), which imposes penalties on miners minting crypto using stolen electricity.

The article stipulates a fine of $1,650 to $8,250 for violators or imprisonment from two to five years. However, for the illegal use of power for crypto mining on an “especially large scale,” the prison term is from five to eight years, per a local media report.

On December 3, members of the Tajik parliament reviewed and adopted the amendments to the Criminal Code, presented by Attorney General Khabibullo Vokhidzoda.

Counsel Vokhidzoda also warned that electricity theft by crypto miners in several cities has already contributed to regional power outages.

“The illegal circulation of virtual assets facilitates a number of crimes, such as the theft of electricity, material damage to the state, money laundering, and other offences,” Vokhidzoda said.

He previously flagged damages from illegal mining operations, causing 32 million somoni (nearly $3.52 million), which led to four to five criminal cases, according to The Diplomat.

Tajikistan Reports Winter Power Shortages

The Central Asian nation, which sources nearly 95% of its electricity from hydropower, is grappling with winter power pressures with low reservoir and river flows.

Besides, following China’s crypto mining ban in 2021, many operators, including those from Russia, moved to Central Asia, attracted by low energy costs and relaxed regulation.

As of August 2025, Tajikistan has been pursuing 190 criminal cases related to the illegal use of electricity. Further, the Diplomat report added that these cases involved 3,988 individuals who allegedly caused damages worth $4.26 million.

MP Shukhrat Ganizoda emphasized that miners connect thousands of ASIC crypto mining devices to Tajikistan’s power grid.

“Those committing such crimes seek to use electricity without meters or through other illegal means to produce such assets,” he explained.

Criminal Code Amendments Prevent Crypto Tax Violations

According to Shukhrat Ganizoda, the new legislation aims to prevent tax evasion schemes and unauthorized electronic encryption.

Additionally, the revisions will also deter attempts to circumvent commodity tracking systems. The bill will be effective after President Emomali Rahmon signs it into law.