They are criminals when you outlaw crypto mining, no?

I think all of the negative externalities are reason enough to crack down on miners (gangs, mafia, ponzis, environmental concerns to name a few). Pick any one that makes you most comfortable.

If you can still “create value” as a miner in a country that welcomes you, more power (hah) to you.

Generally speaking, the miners are the mafias and thugs.