The Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has charged a customer an amount of over GH¢74,000 after the individual was found to have illegally reconnected to the public water supply following a previous disconnection.
The case forms part of the company’s ongoing efforts to clamp down on water theft and illegal connections, which officials say are causing significant revenue losses and undermining the reliability of the water supply to customers.
According to GWL, routine monitoring and enforcement exercises led to the discovery of the illegal reconnection at the customer’s premises, after which officials disconnected the supply again and imposed the penalty.
The company explained that illegal reconnections constitute a serious violation of its regulations and attract strict sanctions, including heavy fines and possible prosecution.
“Illegal reconnection to the water supply network after disconnection is a punishable offence, and offenders will be made to pay all applicable charges and penalties,” the water distribution company said.
GWL said the GH¢74,000 charge reflects accumulated penalties, cost of consumption, and enforcement-related expenses incurred as a result of the offence.
The utility provider noted that water theft remains a major challenge in its operations, contributing to supply disruptions and financial losses that affect system maintenance and expansion projects.
Officials indicated that surveillance and enforcement operations will be intensified across all operational regions to detect and eliminate illegal connections.
“We are strengthening our monitoring systems to ensure that all illegal connections are identified and sanctioned accordingly.”
GWL further urged customers to regularise their connections and engage the company through official channels if they encounter any issues with their water supply.
The company warned that repeat offenders risk stiffer penalties, including legal action.
“We will not hesitate to prosecute individuals who deliberately tamper with the water supply system,” GWL concluded.
