Crypto Revenge? Salon Bombed in Ipoh After Reporting Illegal Electricity Use
Flash Bang Explosion Rocks Ipoh Salon on National Day
In the early hours of Merdeka Day, a salon in Ipoh, Perak, was the target of a bombing attack believed to be linked to a previous electricity theft case involving illegal cryptocurrency mining.
Around 4:58 AM on 31 August, two men on a motorcycle stopped in front of a hair salon in Ipoh Garden and placed a small explosive device before quickly fleeing the scene. Moments later, the device — identified as a pyrotechnic flash bang grenade — detonated, damaging the salon’s roller shutter and glass entrance.
Surveillance Footage Captures Attackers
CCTV footage circulating online showed shattered glass, cracked tiles, a bent shutter, and even the Malaysian flag — which had been proudly hung for Merdeka — fallen onto the floor. Minor damage was also reported at the neighbouring shop, which had its signboard and walls affected.
Explosion May Be Linked to Crypto Mining Investigation
Investigations quickly uncovered a possible motive. The salon owner, Wong Pei Yun, had previously been hit with a massive RM1.14 million electricity bill from Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) after illegal crypto mining activity was detected at her premises last year.
Following an appeal, the amount was reduced to RM44,000 — but Wong’s efforts to bring attention to the issue may have angered those behind the original operation.
According to police, the attack is being treated as a case of revenge possibly related to that incident, though the explosive device used was not intended to cause loss of life. Instead, the flash bang was meant to intimidate.
Damages Escalate Beyond Initial Estimates
Wong initially believed the damages to her shop would cost about RM5,000. However, after a full assessment, the repair bill has since jumped to at least RM10,000, with more expected as hidden issues — such as damage to electrical circuits and internal systems — are inspected.
Police Launch Investigation Into Serious Crime
The case is currently being investigated under Section 436 of the Penal Code (mischief by fire or explosive substance) and Section 6 of the Explosive Substances Act 1957.
Ipoh police chief Assistant Commissioner Abang Zainal Abidin confirmed that any crime involving explosives will be dealt with seriously. He urged the public to come forward with information and provided contacts for the investigating officer and police headquarters.
Meanwhile, the public remains shocked by the act of violence carried out on Malaysia’s most patriotic day — raising questions about the growing link between criminal crypto activity and intimidation tactics in the country.
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