Paida Mukono
CHIREDZI – Residents of Chiredzi are suspecting that there is an organised ring behind the sharp increase in the number of stolen water meters in the town, with others claiming the criminals are driving around in a car collecting the stolen meters.
Speaking during the second engagement meeting which was facilitated by the Zimbabwean Liberators Platform (ZLP) and attended by residents and council personnel, residents of Tshovani high density suburb complained about the increasing cases of meter theft and urged authorities to do more to fight the crime.
“The last few days alone have seen many new cases being reported around the town. We believe it is the same gang which is moving around stealing the meters. I also lost my own meter a few days ago,” said Miriam Chengeta of ward 7.
There were also reports that the United Church of Christ and Lutheran Church have also lost their own meters in the spate of theft.
Town council secretary, Charles Muchatukwa warned against the thefts saying council will work with the police and come down hard against the thieves.
He said council will work hard to make sure the thieves do not get a local market for their stolen meters.
Stolen water meters are believed to be sold to racketeers who smolder them before using the ductile metal for other purposes.news
