SAHRC blows the whistle on corrupt water tanker mafias

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has exposed water tanker mafias that exploit water shortages through systemic corruption and sabotage of essential water infrastructure. These mafias allegedly engage in vandalism, theft, and tampering with municipal water supply systems across the country. The SAHRC met with Acting Police Minister Professor Firoz Cachalia to raise awareness of the issue and released a policy brief in June 2025 to tackle the problem.

The policy brief highlights corruption in procurement, such as rigged water tanker tenders and political interference, as well as local malfeasance like incorrect meter readings and unauthorized usage of public taps and reservoirs. SAHRC Commissioner Dr Henk Boshoff expressed concern that emergency water tankering has become a breeding ground for corruption and profiteering.

He emphasized that the majority of beneficiaries are not receiving the water, while some individuals, including municipal employees, service providers, and councillors, gain financially. The SAHRC urged law enforcement and government bodies to take decisive action using existing legislative tools to eliminate water infrastructure sabotage.

They also provided guidance to address the issue. Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation chairperson Leonard Basson stressed the importance of using emergency tankers only when necessary and ending corruption that leads to infrastructure vandalism for financial gain. The Priority Committee on Infrastructure, established under the SAPS, aims to address water infrastructure challenges, including water mafias, in collaboration with various stakeholders.