Okahandja grapples with water meter theft
Residents distressed by rising crime
The alarming rise in water meter theft in Okahandja has left many residents concerned about their safety.
Criminals targeting water meters, gate valves and sewer caps in Okahandja have disrupted essential services, causing frustration and financial strain on the community.
The Okahandja municipality recently issued a public notice warning residents about the increasing incidence of theft.
They emphasised that these acts not only inconvenience homeowners but also pose significant public safety risks. The municipality has pledged to collaborate with law enforcement to curb theft and take strict legal action against offenders.
This came after a local resident, Himeezembi Kazonganga, reached out on the Okahandja Facebook group, asking: “If you see or hear someone selling a water meter, please notify me; mine was stolen in the early hours."
Financial impact
One of the most recent victims of a similar crime was an elderly resident who wished to remain anonymous.
She woke up to find her water meter missing and left deeply distressed by the incident. “How do I know that if I buy a new one, they won’t steal it again? I do not have a steady income and cannot afford to replace it.”
Her concerns echo those of many other residents who are struggling to cope with the financial burden of replacing stolen meters.
The municipality has urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around water infrastructure and sewer systems.
Affected residents can report incidents at 081 395 0563 / 081 269 8602 or by visiting the municipality’s offices at 65 Martin Neib Avenue.
With the growing number of thefts, Okahandja residents are calling for stronger security measures and increased police patrols in affected areas.
Furthermore, the community is encouraged to work together to protect their infrastructure and ensure their safety. The municipality said it remains committed to finding solutions and deterring these crimes to restore peace of mind to residents of the town.
The Okahandja municipality recently issued a public notice warning residents about the increasing incidence of theft.
They emphasised that these acts not only inconvenience homeowners but also pose significant public safety risks. The municipality has pledged to collaborate with law enforcement to curb theft and take strict legal action against offenders.
This came after a local resident, Himeezembi Kazonganga, reached out on the Okahandja Facebook group, asking: “If you see or hear someone selling a water meter, please notify me; mine was stolen in the early hours."
Financial impact
One of the most recent victims of a similar crime was an elderly resident who wished to remain anonymous.
She woke up to find her water meter missing and left deeply distressed by the incident. “How do I know that if I buy a new one, they won’t steal it again? I do not have a steady income and cannot afford to replace it.”
Her concerns echo those of many other residents who are struggling to cope with the financial burden of replacing stolen meters.
The municipality has urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around water infrastructure and sewer systems.
Affected residents can report incidents at 081 395 0563 / 081 269 8602 or by visiting the municipality’s offices at 65 Martin Neib Avenue.
With the growing number of thefts, Okahandja residents are calling for stronger security measures and increased police patrols in affected areas.
Furthermore, the community is encouraged to work together to protect their infrastructure and ensure their safety. The municipality said it remains committed to finding solutions and deterring these crimes to restore peace of mind to residents of the town.
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