The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has issued a strong warning that acts of vandalism targeting water infrastructure will be met with the full might of the law.
Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina made the remarks while commissioning upgraded water infrastructure aimed at improving water supply in the Rustenburg Local Municipality in the Bojanala District and the Thabazimbi Local Municipality in Limpopo.
The newly commissioned infrastructure includes the Vaalkop Water Treatment Works Raw Pumpstation and an associated bulk water pipeline. The projects are designed to address increasing water demand in both the North West and Limpopo provinces.
Majodina called on local communities to work with government and law enforcement agencies to protect critical water infrastructure from theft and sabotage.
“These projects must be protected, and I want to speak clearly and firmly today. Water infrastructure is not a playground for criminals. The vandalism of pipelines, theft of equipment and manipulation of water systems by so-called water mafias is a direct attack on the dignity and well-being of our people,” she said.
The Minister added that such criminal activities deprive families of water, disrupt livelihoods and undermine development efforts.
Majodina further warned that law enforcement agencies, working alongside the Department, municipalities and water boards, will pursue arrests and prosecutions against individuals involved in deliberate sabotage of water systems and illegal water trading.
“We will seek harsh punishment for anyone who undermines service delivery,” she said.
In addition, the Minister also commissioned an upgraded Bulk Water Supply Scheme aimed at improving water security in rural communities within Rustenburg.
The second phase of the project is expected to commence in March 2026 and is anticipated to benefit approximately 144,133 residents, including schools and clinics, in the Bethanie and Makolokwe villages.
