Ghana Water Ltd. Cracks Down on Illegal Connections in Accra West, Warns of Prosecution

Ghana Water Limited (GWL), Accra West Region, has announced a major clampdown on illegal water connections, vowing to prosecute offenders who fail to comply with repeated warnings to regularise their usage.

A recent audit conducted across the company's 12 operational districts revealed nearly 1,500 cases of unauthorized water connections between the last quarter of 2024 and the first quarter of 2025. These illicit activities have not only resulted in significant revenue losses for the company but have also caused service disruptions for paying customers.

In a bid to offer a fair resolution, GWL extended a grace period allowing those with illegal connections to voluntarily report and legalise their access to water without facing legal consequences. However, the company says that more than 800 individuals have ignored the offer despite multiple follow-ups.

In a statement released on Wednesday, June 4, and signed by Solace Akomeah, Communications Manager for Accra West Region, GWL stated that it will now take decisive action against non-compliant users. Legal proceedings will begin shortly, with the Ghana Police Service providing enforcement support.

“Illegal connections are not just administrative breaches—they are acts of theft,” the statement read. “They compromise the sustainability of our operations and the integrity of our service to honest customers. We will not tolerate such sabotage.”

GWL warned that individuals who continue to operate without authorisation will be arrested and prosecuted. The utility provider emphasized that its staff work tirelessly to ensure reliable water supply, and it will not allow the misconduct of a few to jeopardize the system.

As part of its broader strategy to promote accountability and improve service delivery, the company is also urging the public to report illegal water connections in their communities.

“We are committed to fair and equitable water distribution,” the statement added. “Community involvement is essential in rooting out illegalities and safeguarding public resources.”

The move signals a tougher stance by GWL on water theft as it seeks to tighten operational controls and protect its infrastructure from abuse.