The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) has launched a joint security operation in Kitgum following the theft of at least 150 water meters since July 2024, in what officials suspect is an organized criminal enterprise.
The thefts have caused substantial financial losses, disrupted water supply, and left the utility struggling with mounting operational costs.
Caroline Mercy Abonyo, the NWSC Area Manager for Kitgum, says the thefts have spread across several parts of Kitgum Municipality, causing significant financial losses and disrupting water service delivery.
She says the first suspect was arrested in April this year, prosecuted, and fined by court, although the sentence has not yet been fully enforced.
A second suspect was arrested earlier this week and remains under investigation.
According to Abonyo, the thefts started on a small scale in 2024, with fewer than 20 water meters stolen.
However, the cases surged last year, initially around Apollo Ground before spreading to Lamit, which has recorded the highest number of thefts.
Joseph Okidi, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner for Kitgum says his office has received numerous complaints about the thefts, particularly from Alango Ward in Pandwong Division. He says the district is working closely with NWSC and security agencies to curb the vice.
By URN
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