By 
The Lusaka Water Supply and Sanitation Company (LWSC) has raised alarm over the growing number of incidents in which its employees are harassed, threatened, or physically assaulted while carrying out official duties such as meter reading and disconnections due to non-payment.
In a recent case on Sunday, June 29, 2025, Gaston Bwalya, a Business Revenue Assistant (BRA) based at the George Office under LWSC’s Western Region, was physically attacked and sustained a forehead injury while disconnecting water supply at a customer’s premises.
LWSC Public Relations Manager, Ruth Mukuwa, said in a statement issued in Lusaka on Wednesday that Bwalya received medical treatment at Matero Level One Hospital and was recovering at home.
She further confirmed that the matter had been reported to the police, though the suspect was still at large.
Mukuwa strongly condemned the assault, noting that LWSC employees perform essential public service functions that are legally protected.
“According to Section 32(c) of the Water Supply and Sanitation Act No. 28 of 1997, LWSC employees have the legal right to access both private and public premises for service-related tasks such as meter reading, inspections, and disconnections,” she said.
Commenting on the incident, Director of Commercial Services, Brian Muwowo, expressed deep concern over the rising risks to field personnel and reminded customers that violence was unacceptable.
“If customers are aggrieved by any action taken by LWSC, they are encouraged to use the appropriate complaint resolution mechanisms. They may escalate matters to the regulator, NWASCO, or the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation. Attacking our staff is criminal and unlawful—and must stop immediately,” Muwowo said.
He emphasized that the case involving Bwalya would be pursued through the justice system to send a strong message that violence against utility workers will not be tolerated.
Muwowo also advised LWSC staff to avoid confrontations and, in the event of serious threats, to withdraw and report the incident to supervisors or law enforcement officers.
“LWSC assures the public that our staff are committed to addressing customer concerns through formal channels,” he said.
He reaffirmed the utility’s commitment to delivering reliable and uninterrupted water and sanitation services while prioritizing the safety and well-being of its employees in line with its duty of care.
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