By Palesa Matlala
· Families and businesses in Gauteng are forced to buy water from alleged mafias as outages leave communities desperate and spark violent protests.
· Johannesburg Water says tanker water is free and urges residents to report criminals who sell it, warning of exploitation during the crisis.
Johannesburg Water has urged residents not to pay for water from criminals taking advantage of the crisis in Gauteng.
Water cuts have left many communities desperate, leading to angry protests, road closures, and violent clashes with the police throughout September.
Some families and businesses say they had no choice but to buy water from people selling it from tankers.
In Kokosi, one family admitted buying water in JoJo tanks from an alleged water mafia to prepare for their son’s funeral.
Businesses in Westbury and nearby areas shut down after water disruptions, and residents clashed with police. During one protest, an 81-year-old pensioner was shot with a rubber bullet.
In Ivory Park, protesters blocked roads, kept children out of school, and forced shops to close out of fear of looting.
Protesters said water is a basic human right and called on the government to act quickly.
Johannesburg Water managing director Ntshavheni Mukwevho warned residents not to buy water, saying it undermines the utility’s promise to provide free supplies through water tankers.
“The sale of water goes against our commitment to provide free alternative supply to communities. Water distributed through water trucks is free of charge,” said Mukwevho.
He urged residents to report anyone selling water. People should collect details including the time, date, location, truck registration, photos or videos, and a written statement.
Mukwevho added that residents can also escalate cases to their local ward councilors.
Pictured above: Westbury Resident
Image source: Palesa Matlala
