DA opens criminal case after 408 fall ill in Tshwane water crisis

The Democratic Alliance (DA) opened a criminal case after 408 people in Bronkhorstspruit and surrounding communities reported gastrointestinal illness between October 7 and 18. South Africa’s Department of Water and Sanitation found that the Bronkhorstspruit treatment works operated without chlorination from September 24 to October 14 because of problems with the chlorine supplier; most reported cases involved children under four. Tests found high levels of E. coli and coliforms in the water, while patient samples detected norovirus, Campylobacter and Shigella; no deaths had been reported. WaterCAN called for an immediate inquiry and accountability, and the municipality faced criticism for failing to warn residents that the water was unsafe for drinking and household use.