Underground Bitcoin Mine Fire Destroys 20 Computers in Kanchanaburi
A fire destroyed an illegal bitcoin mining operation hidden on the third floor of a Kanchanaburi shophouse on July 15, with nearly 20 computers damaged and massive electricity theft uncovered.
Fire broke out at a three-story shophouse in downtown Kanchanaburi on July 15, 2025, with the origin on the third floor where an illegal bitcoin mining operation was concealed. Nearly 20 computers and mining equipment were destroyed, causing electrical damage estimated at hundreds of thousands of baht monthly.
Police from Mueang Kanchanaburi station received the alarm and coordinated with municipal fire and rescue officials to respond. The fire was located in the top floor of the end unit of a row of eight adjoining shophouses. Firefighters used external water cannons and hoses to control the blaze on the third floor, containing it within approximately 30 minutes without spreading to neighboring buildings.
After extinguishing the fire, responders discovered irregularities: the third-floor room contained computers and bitcoin mining equipment—over 20 machines—severely damaged by flames. Police coordinated with the Provincial Electricity Authority for inspection. Deputy Commander Jompol Rujirdam led the investigation team.
Inspection revealed the room had large air conditioning units and extensive sound-absorbing foam. The building's first floor showed evidence of illegal electrical rewiring to tap power authority lines for the clandestine mining operation. Based on the quantity of equipment discovered, the operation was estimated to consume 100,000–200,000 baht in electricity monthly, yet the building's official bill was only 1,000 baht per month.
Police believe the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit at the control panel, sparking the flames. Investigators are pursuing the building owner for further questioning and legal proceedings.
