The Mampong Magistrate Court in the Ashanti region has slapped a 23-year-old resident of Asante Mampong with a 12-month prison term for his involvement in water meter theft.

Sumaila Abdul Rahman of mixed Ghanaian and Nigerian descent was arrested on October 11, 2024, for stealing a water meter and other materials.

At the time of his arrest, the police and staff of the water company retrieved five water meters, seven copper water taps, and other items.

He was arraigned before the Mampong Magistrate Court on Monday, October 14, 2024, with Chief Inspector Richard Obeng Asare leading the prosecution.

The court found him guilty and was sentenced to 12 months in prison.

The ruling comes amidst intensified efforts by the Ghana Water Limited to combat thievery and other illegal water-related issues in the region.

In a related incident, Priscilla Amofa, a resident of Ahinsan is currently in the grips of Kumasi Central Police for allegedly reconnecting his disconnected water services without paying outstanding bills.

Her accomplice, Nana Adu, is currently at large after being accused of similar offenses.

The arrests highlight the company's commitment to addressing water theft and illegal reconnections, which they said undermines efforts to provide reliable water services to communities.

Management in the Ashanti Region (Ashanti North and South Regions) are urging residents to report any suspicious activities related to water supply theft, illegal connections, or unauthorised reconnections, as they work to maintain the integrity of essential services.

“These developments serve as a reminder of the importance of compliance with utility regulations and the consequences of illegal activities. Management commends the judicial service’ swift action in these cases reflecting a proactive approach to ensuring accountability and protecting community resources,” the Public Relations Officer of the GWCL in the Ashanti region, Ebenezer Padi Narh, said.

Management of the company is encouraging residents and customers to stay informed and cooperate with local authorities to promote a responsible and lawful society.

“We are dedicated to serving communities with potable water and urge the public to assist us in serving them better,” Mr Narh added.