Water meter theft

Kya Sand resident Simon Lenkoe became victim of water meter theft in Johannesburg.

According to Lenkoe this happens occasionally, not just to him but other residents in his area. “If they are not stealing one piece of metal, they are stealing the whole thing,” said Lenkoe. “When they stole my neighbours meter, water was left running until Joburg Water came to replace the meter three days later.”

Ward 96 councillor Matome Mafokwane said he had taken the initiative to report the problem to the entity. He had been told that they were currently investigating the matter and were also consulting with scrap metal businesses to discourage theft.

In response the entity’s spokesperson Millicent Kabwe said, “Residents should report stolen meters to the police and to the entity, this is the only way we can help them. We are currently running a campaign in the inner city, and other areas where this problem has manifested.”

Kabwe explained that the entity was trying to educate scrap metal businesses on the implications of buying the meters. She said it was illegal to steal water meters, to sell them, or even buy any parts of a water meter. Kabwe also warned there would be penalties for scrap metal businesses who are found in possession of stolen property.

“We encourage members of the public to report suspicious people. The only people who should be touching water meters are the entity’s employees who are in uniform, either inspecting or fixing the meter,” concluded Kabwe.

Details: Joburg Water SMS line 082 655 2143, or Joburg Connect 011 375 5555.