RC warns of tough action on manhole theft in Dodoma

DODOMA: DODOMA Regional Commissioner Rosemary Senyamule has warned that anyone caught stealing manhole covers will face strict legal action, including prosecution for economic sabotage.

After inspecting central Dodoma areas affected by thefts, RC Senyamule revealed that over 91 manhole covers, valued at 91m/-, have been stolen, leaving dangerous open pits that threaten motorists, pedestrians and emergency vehicles.

“We are deeply concerned about this issue. Those responsible will be relentlessly pursued and anyone arrested will face charges of economic sabotage,” she said.

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RC Senyamule also expressed concern over reports of stolen steel electricity poles and urged local leaders at street, ward and village levels to protect public property. She called for the deployment of ward police and community security groups and warned that scrap metal dealers found buying stolen government property will face prosecution.

To tackle the problem, the regional administration will form a team of experts to conduct day and night patrols across neighbourhoods. The RC urged citizens to actively safeguard government assets, highlighting the significant investments made for their benefit.

She also appealed to residents to stop dumping waste into manholes, warning that blocked sewer lines cause spills, environmental pollution and disease outbreaks.

In support of security efforts, 106 CCTV cameras have been installed across the city.

Dodoma Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Authority (DUWASA) Managing Director Engineer Aron Joseph said the thefts have cost the government dearly, as stolen covers are sold as scrap metal.

“Recently, thieves stole six manhole covers in a single day in the city centre, causing problems for drivers,” he said.

Eng Joseph added that DUWASA continues repairing stolen manhole sites to minimise inconvenience to road users and ensure proper water supply and sanitation infrastructure in the city.