By Bathel Shuro

CHEGUTU — IN a proactive move to combat rising cases of water pipe vandalism, Chegutu Municipality’s law enforcement agencies have taken decisive action by fining four households for illicitly tapping into the water supply system.

The suspects were caught red-handed by the Municipality task force following a tip-off. Subsequent investigations revealed that they had been tampering with water pipes to gain unauthorised access to free water, thus jeopardising the safety and well-being of the entire community.

Expressing concern over the repeated vandalism of municipal water infrastructure along Kamba Street, the Municipality of Chegutu Information and Communication Department conveyed their distress.

“Despite previous repairs and closure to facilitate normal and legal connection, properties C46, C49, C53, and C83 have perpetrators extracting free water by way of digging pits for harvesting water and risking contamination.

An inspection of the area identified various issues, including broken taps and the use of hoses leading to water loss.

The department said offenders will face penalties, underlining the serious nature of water infrastructure vandalism and its potential to compromise public health.

Water infrastructure vandalism has emerged as a grave concern, with numerous instances of illegal connections and tampering with water pipes occurring in this suburb in recent months.

Authorities have cautioned that such actions can result in water contamination, posing significant health risks to consumers and incurring substantial repair costs.

The crackdown on water pipe vandalism forms part of a broader effort to safeguard the integrity of the water supply system and protect the community’s health.

Residents have been urged to promptly report any suspicious activity or illegal connections to the authorities, with a firm warning that those found guilty will face severe penalties.

New Ziana