Paraguay law enforcement thwarts crypto miner heist, deports arrested suspects

Authorities in Paraguay deported three individuals and arrested another in connection with a May 15 attempted robbery at a crypto mining operation in Coronel Bogado, a town and district in Paraguay.

According to statements by prosecutor Irene Rolón made during a May 15 interview on local news outlet Monumental TV, the group allegedly targeted computer servers used in crypto mining and gained unauthorized access to a locked section of the facility.

The incident was discovered after local authorities received a local tip about a secured room within the mining site. Upon opening the door, they encountered four Chinese nationals inside.

Rolón stated that the individuals did not speak Spanish, but authorities could confirm through digital translation tools and documentation that they were from mainland China.

Investigators requested access to the individuals’ passports and discovered that three had entered the country without legal authorization. 

Paraguayan authorities summoned Interpol agents and confirmed that the individuals lacked records of legal entry into Paraguay. The group had reportedly entered through Bolivia and Brazil.

Motive and criminal investigation

Authorities suspect the attempted robbery was part of a broader pattern involving a group that regularly targets high-value electronic equipment. 

The arrested individual was initially hospitalized in critical condition but later transferred to a general ward. Authorities did not reveal the reason behind his hospitalization.

Investigators have not yet been able to conduct a full interview with him to determine the group’s precise objective. Based on preliminary findings, law enforcement officials believe the group aimed to steal the facility’s servers and other computing hardware.

Authorities are working to identify and locate additional individuals linked to the attempted theft. Rolón said the authorities possess preliminary data that may assist in tracking down the remaining suspects.

The criminal investigation remains active, and the Public Ministry is coordinating efforts with Interpol and immigration authorities. 

Unauthorized labor and administrative action

The four individuals told investigators they had been working as programmers for the company operating the mining facility. However, without proper documentation, their employment status remains under investigation.

Rolón also stated that the employer had not yet presented any documentation substantiating the employment relationship. The company’s owner committed to providing the relevant paperwork by May 16.

The prosecutor noted that the expulsion process for the undocumented individuals began immediately after the arrest.

The outcome of ongoing interviews and document review will determine the legal status of the Chinese nationals’ employment and any further charges related to the attempted theft.