WASA Condemns Vandalism At Penal Wells, Calls For Immediate End To Attacks On Infrastructure

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The Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) is reporting two (2) incidents of vandalism at Penal Wells #17 and #18, underscoring growing concern over repeated attacks on critical water infrastructure in South-West Trinidad.

In a Media Release on Thursday (19th March, 2026), WASA said the facilities were vandalized on 24th February, 2026 and again on 16th March, 2026, “when electrical cables were cut and T&TEC meters stolen, resulting in significant damage to operational systems.”

The incidents resulted in production losses of 0.12 million gallons per day (MGD) in February and 0.14 MGD during the most recent act, with estimated repair costs totalling over $23,000.


Chief Executive Officer Dain Maharaj strongly condemned the acts and issued a firm warning.

“These acts of vandalism are completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated. They represent a direct attack on critical national infrastructure and place an unnecessary financial burden on the Authority. This behaviour must stop. We are calling on members of the public to report any suspicious activity so that together we can protect these facilities and hold those responsible accountable.”

According to WASA, “Vandalism of public property is a criminal offence. In particular, Section 25 of the Summary Offences Act (Chap. 11:02) and Section 45 of the Malicious Damage Act (Chap. 11:06) provide that any person who wilfully or maliciously damages public property is liable to penalties on conviction, including fines and imprisonment.”

The Authority is urging all citizens to “respect public facilities and infrastructure, as acts of vandalism undermine WASA's ability to provide reliable water and wastewater services.”

WASA said it is working with relevant authorities to address the incidents and prevent further occurrences.

Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious activity via the Vandalism Hotline: 496-6738 (WhatsApp available).

More on this as it becomes available.

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