Central Asian nations like Tajikistan and Kazakhstan are grappling with a surge in illegal Bitcoin mining activities. A Decrypt report highlights the significant financial repercussions these activities are having on their power grids and economies. Tajikistan's Prosecutor's Office estimates a staggering $3.52 million in damages incurred in the first half of this year alone. This loss is attributed to the clandestine import of mining equipment and the subsequent diversion of electricity, placing undue strain on the nation's energy infrastructure. Kazakhstan faces a similar predicament. Recent investigations revealed that employees of local energy companies illicitly supplied 50 MWh of electricity to mining operations over two years, resulting in an estimated $16.5 million in damages. These illegal operations undermine legitimate businesses and strain power resources for the general population. The crackdown on illegal Bitcoin mining is expected to intensify in both countries. ```

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