“Respect the Pipe”: GWL Declares Nationwide Crackdown on Illegal Connections and Meter Theft

 Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has declared a national war on illegal water connections and meter theft, as the company steps up its enforcement campaign to safeguard Ghana’s water infrastructure, protect revenue, and ensure fair access to potable water.

Amid alarming levels of illegal water use, GWL says thousands of unauthorized connections and stolen meters have jeopardized its ability to serve millions of Ghanaians reliably. The company is responding with a nationwide crackdown—spearheaded by a robust enforcement and revenue recovery strategy—under the rallying call: “Respect the Pipe.”

A Rising Threat

In a press statement the Company said between the last quarter of 2024 and mid-2025, it recorded a sharp spike in water theft. Illegal practices such as bypassing water meters, directly tapping pipelines, installing in-line pumping systems, and outright theft of meters have severely undermined operations.

“In the Accra-Tema Metropolitan Area alone, more than 2,700 illegal connections were discovered in just six months. These included unauthorized service lines, meter bypasses, and even reconnections by customers previously cut off for nonpayment.”

“One egregious case at Power Land, near Ritz Junction on the Agbogba Road, exposed a complex setup where a single property was illegally channeling water through three separate lines, with only one properly metered. The other two, hidden behind a wall and feeding large underground reservoirs, supplied water to tanker operators—entirely off the books.”

“This is a deliberate act that directly undermines our efforts to ensure revenue recovery and fair distribution,” said Ing. Dr. Hadisu Alhassan, Regional Production Manager for the Accra-Tema Metropolitan Area.

Leadership at the Frontline

The bust at Agbogba was personally led by GWL Board Chairman, Mr. Eric Biliguo Adama, whose hands-on leadership has drawn praise across the utility’s operations.

“It is refreshing to see our leadership take active steps in enforcement. It sends a clear message that illegalities will not be tolerated,” Ing. Alhassan stated.

The Silent Crisis: Meter Theft

Alongside illegal connections, GWL is battling a surge in water meter theft—especially of its high-value ultrasonic models. Since January 2025, thousands of meters have been stolen nationwide, causing not only major financial loss but also widespread unmetered consumption and service disruption.

“Meter theft is an economic crime with real consequences,” warned Hon. Adam Mutawakilu, Managing Director of GWL. “Every stolen meter means we lose the ability to accurately bill and manage consumption, which affects everyone.”

The company is working closely with the Ghana Police Service to investigate theft rings, some of which are believed to be part of organized operations targeting key service zones.

Regional Action: From Accra to Tamale

GWL’s regional teams are taking bold steps. In Accra West, over 800 illegal users are facing legal action after ignoring a grace period to regularize their services.
“We gave ample time. Those who didn’t comply will face the law,” said Ms. Solace Akomeah, PR and Communications Manager for Accra West.

In the Ashanti Region, five people were arrested for illegal tapping in areas like Dakodwom and Santasi Apire. They were surcharged, and GWL has recovered the losses.
“Illegal connections don’t just cut our revenue. They derail planned expansions and deny others access,” said Mr. Padi Kwabena Narh, PR Officer for the region.

Tamale also recorded a landmark conviction: Mr. Ibrahim Baako Alhassan, a 50-year-old businessman, was fined GHS 3,600 or face 12 months in prison for illegally installing in-line pumps.

Justice with Balance

GWL insists its approach balances law enforcement with public education. Offenders are first issued notices and offered grace periods before legal action is taken.

“In cases like Agbogba, where internal collusion is suspected, we are working with security agencies to investigate,” said MD Mutawakilu. “If any staff are complicit, they will face both administrative and legal consequences.”

Engaging the Public

GWL believes lasting success lies in public partnership. It has intensified nationwide education campaigns encouraging lawful connections and reporting of illegal acts.

“Water is a national asset. Every Ghanaian must help protect it,” Mutawakilu appealed. “When one person steals water, someone else is denied.”

The utility is also considering whistleblower incentives in high-risk areas and exploring community-based partnerships to boost vigilance.

A Smarter, Fairer Future

Despite the scale of the challenge, GWL is optimistic. It has already begun investing in smart meters, digital billing, and leakage control systems to modernize Ghana’s water supply.

“Our goal goes beyond catching offenders,” says Mr. Mutawakilu. “We’re building a fair, efficient, and sustainable water system for all.”

Across the country—from Kumasi to Sunyani, Agbogba to Tamale—GWL’s message is clear: Illegal connections and meter theft will not derail national progress.

But GWL acknowledges the battle cannot be won alone.

“It is not a fight GWL can win on its own. We need citizens, chiefs, policymakers, and the media to come together. Every stolen litre affects another household,” Mr. Mutawakilu stated.

Take Action. Report Abuse. Respect the Pipe.

GWL is urging all customers to report suspected illegal connections and visit its district offices to regularize services. With enforcement now in full gear, the company is doubling down on its commitment to expand access, improve service quality, and build public trust.

“Now is the time to act. Report all illegal connections. Reject the unlawful. Respect the pipe.” – Ghana Water Ltd