23 January 2026 – 15:00
Revenue Collection Blitz Targets Illegal Reconnection in Berea
Media Statement
The City of Johannesburg, together with Johannesburg Water and City Power, has undertaken a targeted revenue collection blitz in Berea, Region F, aimed at
addressing illegal reconnections and outstanding debt. The operation, which took place on Friday, 23 January 2026, focused on Johannesburg Water customers who collectively owe
the city millions of rands.
These customers had previously been disconnected for non-payment but unlawfully reconnected themselves, impacting the City’s ability to deliver equitable services.
Johannesburg Water’s Senior Manager for Metering and Revenue, Siphindile Ngange, said the intervention was necessary to protect communities and ensure
fairness. “When customers reconnect services illegally, it affects the entire community.
It diverts resources away from maintaining and improving services for lawabiding residents who do the right thing by paying for municipal services,” said Ngange.
Revenue collected is reinvested into infrastructure maintenance and service improvements. “We encourage residents who are experiencing financial difficulties to come
forward and engage with us. The City offers payment arrangements and support mechanisms, but illegal connections are not the solution,” Ngange
added.
The City of Johannesburg reaffirmed its commitment to working with communities to ensure sustainable service delivery while continuing enforcement actions against
unlawful practices.
Ends
Issued by: Johannesburg Water Communication and Marketing.