Water infrastructure attacks spark concern in uMkhanyakude
Mayor Siphile Mdaka says the damage exceeds R1.5 million and may be linked to to cable theft and organised activity targeting water systems.
There are growing concerns in the uMkhanyakude District after several attacks and acts of vandalism at critical water and sanitation sites.
The municipality says these incidents have been happening over the past three months.
Treatment plant attack
Armed suspects entered the Mtubatuba Wastewater Treatment Plant a week ago.
They damaged equipment and injured a security guard.
He is recovering in hospital, and police are investigating cases of attempted murder and business robbery.
In another incident, residents in the Gxabisa and Mtembeni areas were left without water for up to seven days while repairs got underway.
Damage costs mount
Mayor Siphile Mdaka says the damage is estimated at more than R1.5 million.
“The trend suggests that it's related to theft of cables in particular, because that’s where it begins when you follow the trace.
“You could also suspect that it could be individuals that understand the issues, particularly of water and sanitation, because when you steal a pump, it's one thing when you break it, but when you steal it as well, it could be related to the issue of someone who understands that space. Issues of water mafia, of course you cannot exclude that possibility.”
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