Five arrested over illegal water connections in Kumasi
The arrests follow the suspects’ failure to settle surcharges totalling GH₵31,803.97, issued as penalties for their alleged illegal tapping into GWCL pipelines.
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Ghana Water Limited (GWCL), in collaboration with the Kumasi Central Police Command, has apprehended five individuals suspected of making unauthorized connections to the company’s water supply system in the Ashanti South region.
The arrests follow the suspects’ failure to settle surcharges totalling GH₵31,803.97, issued as penalties for their alleged illegal tapping into GWCL pipelines. The joint operation is part of GWCL’s broader strategy to combat water losses and protect its infrastructure from unauthorised use.
According to officials, three of the detained individuals have since paid a combined amount of GH₵11,515.00 to clear their outstanding obligations. The remaining two are still in police custody and may face further legal consequences if they fail to make restitution.
GWCL highlighted that illegal connections are a growing threat in the region, significantly contributing to what is termed Non-Revenue Water (NRW)—treated water that does not generate income due to theft, leakages, or inaccurate metering. The company warned that such actions deplete critical revenue streams and hinder efforts to improve water delivery services and infrastructure.
Acting Regional Chief Manager of GWCL Ashanti South, Innocentia Kuupiel, praised the Central Police Command for their collaboration, noting that the arrests should serve as a warning to others engaged in similar acts.
“Illegal water connections have become rampant in the Ashanti Region, heavily contributing to the Non-Revenue Water challenge. These actions not only deprive the company of much-needed revenue but also affect service delivery to law-abiding consumers,” Kuupiel stated.
She further urged community members to support GWCL’s anti-theft campaign by reporting suspicious water use or tampering with pipelines.
Reinforcing this call, Regional Public Relations Officer Ebenezer Kwabena Padi reiterated GWCL’s commitment to delivering reliable water services. He appealed to the public to stand firm against illegal practices that compromise the system, stressing the importance of collective vigilance in safeguarding national resources.
