Five people accused of unlawfully tapping into the water supply have been detained by Ghana Water Limited (GWL), Ashanti South Region, in cooperation with the Kumasi Central Police Service, as part of a coordinated effort to prevent illicit water connections.
The arrests, which were made earlier today, are a major step in GWL’s continuous efforts to lower commercial losses and provide equitable access to water resources for all locals.
The five people were arrested after they did not reply to Gh₵31,803.97 in surcharges for their alleged unlawful connections. Three of the suspects have now made payments totaling Gh₵11,515.00, but the other two are still being held by the police and will be processed further if the payment requirements are not fulfilled.
Concern over the Ashanti Region’s high rate of illicit connections and water siphoning, which is a significant source of non-revenue water (NRW), has grown, according to GWCL authorities. Water that is produced but cannot be tracked, whether due to theft, leakage, or other causes, is referred to as NRW.
According to the corporation, illicit activity is costing them a lot of money and making it more difficult for them to maintain and upgrade water infrastructure.
“Illegal connection and siphoning of water have become rampant in the Ashanti Region, contributing significantly to Non-Revenue Water for the region.” Management’s dedication to fostering relationships with the police and the media will help to eradicate this menace.”
Madam Innocentia Kuupiel, the Acting Regional Chief Manager, praised the Central Police administration’s efforts for helping to make the operation a success. She said she was hopeful the crackdown would discourage others from considering illicit water connections.
The arrests happened at a number of places throughout the region, including Kwadaso Estate, Denyame, Dakodwom, and Santasi Apire.
Residents of the Ashanti Region are being urged by GWL to report any suspicious activity to the firm in order to actively participate in the fight against illicit connections. For this reason, a special hotline, 055 677 9028, has been set up, and callers may be sure that their information will be handled with the highest confidentially. Additionally, GWL is providing a prize for confirmed reports of illicit connections.
“Ghana Water Limited is committed to meeting the demands of its customers and entreats that all and sundry should join the fight against Illegal Water Connections, as such acts deny the company the resources to enhance operations,” the spokesperson added.
The business has promised to keep collaborating closely with law enforcement to eliminate illegal connections across the Ashanti Region. This most recent operation makes it abundantly evident that GWL is taking the matter seriously and is dedicated to safeguarding its resources and making sure that everyone has access to a clean water supply.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com