* A major breakthrough against vandalism
* So far, BWB has recovered close to 2,000 water fittings and identified numerous components of its postpaid and prepaid water meters that had been crushed and reduced to scrap metal
By Duncan Mlanjira
Blantyre Water Board (BWB) reports that Limbe Police has confiscated a truck carrying 40-foot container of scrap metals, which included suspected stolen its water meters and fittings.
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On its official Facebook account, BWB reports the container, which was reportedly destined for export to India, was intercepted while being loaded with scrap metals by a scrap metal dealer in Limbe.
This is a major breakthrough in the fight against vandalism and theft of public water infrastructure.
“Among the scrap materials were BWB meters and various water network fittings, which had been packed in sacks and concealed within the consignment,” reports BWB.
“So far, BWB has recovered close to 2,000 water fittings and identified numerous components of its postpaid and prepaid water meters that had been crushed and reduced to scrap metal.
“This discovery provides further evidence of the extent to which valuable public water infrastructure is being destroyed for illegal commercial gain.
“BWB commends the Malawi Police Service, particularly Limbe Police, for their vigilance and continued partnership in protecting public infrastructure.
“The Board also applauds the growing collaboration among the security teams of BWB, Malawi Telecommunications Limited (MTL) and ESCOM in sharing intelligence and coordinating efforts to combat vandalism.
“Combating vandalism requires collective responsibility. Blantyre Water Board, therefore, urges scrap metal dealers, transporters, exporters and members of the public to exercise due diligence and refrain from trading in stolen public infrastructure.
“Anyone with information regarding the theft or illegal possession of BWB materials is encouraged to report it to the relevant authorities,” says the statement.
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