Water metre theft a criminal offence, Water Authority of Fiji warns

Tampering with or stealing water metres is a criminal offence. This is the warning from the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF).
WAF chief executive officer Seru Soderberg issued the statement following reports of water metre thefts in Raiwaqa, Suva. While condemning the thefts, Mr Soderberg warned that those caught would face legal action, as such acts directly deprive families of an essential service.
“WAF will work with police to ensure perpetrators are held accountable, and we are strengthening measures to protect these community assets,” Mr Soderberg said.
Residents are now urging WAF, police, and community leaders to step up patrols and introduce stricter penalties to deter thieves.
Raiwaqa resident Ecelina Bola, 29, said the situation was not only a financial burden but also a health risk.
“When we woke up in the morning to get water to prepare breakfast, there was no water coming from our taps. After trying to find out what was wrong, we discovered that our water metre had been stolen,” Ms Bola said.
“Without water, how are we supposed to maintain hygiene, especially with children in the house? Water is a basic need, and now we are left stranded,” she added.
“Water metres are assets of the WAF. Thieves are not just stealing water metres; they are stealing our right to have access to clean water,” Ms Bola said.
Residents report that the problem has become a frequent occurrence, with thieves targeting metres at night and disappearing before anyone notices.