What to Know:
- •ICE raid targets Bitmain in Texas.
- •Increased scrutiny of Chinese-linked crypto operations.
- •Detainment of Bitmain-associated staff at the site.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement led a raid on a Bitcoin mining facility in Pyote, Texas, detaining Chinese nationals linked to expired visas on September 29, 2025.
The raid highlights intensified U.S. scrutiny of Chinese-linked crypto operations, potentially affecting Bitcoin market dynamics and regulatory environments for international crypto mining companies.
ICE Seizes Lonestar Dream Bitcoin Mine
U.S. federal agencies, led by ICE, seized the Lonestar Dream Bitcoin mine, arresting ADW Tech staff tied to Bitmain. The site, previously owned by Poolin, continued operations managed by ADW Tech. This action aligns with ongoing attention to crypto mining compliance and trade violations linked to Chinese companies.
Enforcement Disrupts 30 MW Mining Operations
Immediate effects include disrupted operations at the 30 MW mining site. It's indicative of increased enforcement of immigration and trade laws. Financially, direct impacts on Bitcoin mining operations are seen, alongside potential diplomatic tensions due to staff detentions. Public statements from Bitmain, ADW Tech, or Poolin remain absent, echoing industry anticipation.
“The ongoing scrutiny of Chinese-affiliated cryptocurrency mining operations underscores the heightened regulatory focus on compliance and operational transparency,” said an anonymous source familiar with the federal investigations.
U.S. Seizure Actions Reflect Aggressive Crypto Compliance
Since 2024, the CBP has seized thousands of ASIC miners, echoing trade control actions. This reinforces regulatory focus on compliance and potential sanctions. If past U.S. regulatory actions continue, further tightened operational protocols and scrutiny on Chinese crypto ventures are likely, impacting global crypto supply chains.
— Whistleblower @whistleblower link