Lira, Uganda | The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) Lira branch has dismissed allegations that its staff are behind the increasing cases of water meter thefts, instead attributing the crimes to organised street gangs and scrap metal dealers.
Speaking to the press on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, Gerazio Tukahirwa, the NWSC Lira Branch Manager, refuted claims of insider involvement, stating that the corporation’s staff are professionals committed to public service.
He added that if any employee were to be found complicit, they should face legal consequences, including prosecution or harsher punishment.
Tukahirwa noted that the ongoing thefts were affecting both the community and the NWSC’s ability to deliver essential services.
He pointed out that the most likely culprits were street goons and unscrupulous scrap dealers who have been consistently linked to the destruction and theft of infrastructure.
According to Tukahirwa, most of the thefts were taking place during the night, with perpetrators targeting taps, water meters, and manhole covers.
He said that in some areas, stolen installations had to be replaced repeatedly, adding to the corporation’s operational costs.
He cited the Lagoons area as one of the hardest-hit, where criminals broke into a six-acre fenced NWSC facility and removed all manhole covers.
He also referenced incidents along Tumu roads, where over 50 manhole covers—each valued at UGX 1 million—were stolen in just three days, resulting in an estimated loss of more than UGX 100 million.
Tukahirwa stressed that such thefts not only disrupted services but also placed a heavy financial burden on the corporation and the taxpayers who ultimately fund the replacement of lost infrastructure.
In response to the increasing thefts, he revealed that NWSC had initiated discussions with Lira City authorities to explore solutions for protecting water infrastructure.
He emphasised the need for collaboration with security agencies, local leadership, and the community.
Tukahirwa urged the public to remain vigilant, advising residents to report anyone attempting to sell used water taps, meters, or related components.
He noted that community reports could trigger investigations and help dismantle criminal networks operating within the city.
He also cautioned scrap dealers to scrutinise the origin of the materials they acquire and avoid dealing in components clearly belonging to public utilities.
Tukahirwa reassured the public of NWSC’s continued commitment to transparency and the delivery of safe, reliable water services.
He warned, however, that continued thefts could lead to delays in service delivery and increased costs for consumers.
He maintained that the corporation was determined to safeguard its infrastructure and continue serving the people of Lira.
