330 cryptocurrency mining machines seized in Mestia, Gov’t Administration Head

A total of 330 cryptocurrency mining machines have been seized in Mestia as part of an investigation into the alleged illegal consumption of electricity, according to Head of the Government Administration Levan Zhorzholiani.

Zhorzholiani on Monday said the government's goal is to remove as many mining devices as possible, arguing that their operation contributed to electricity consumption in the municipality exceeding 133 million kilowatt-hours.

He said such levels of electricity use were unrealistic for a municipality the size of Mestia, where normal consumption should be between seven and 10 million kilowatt-hours.

The official also called on residents to cooperate with the Interior Ministry in identifying cases of illegal electricity use.