Dmae reports increase in water meter thefts in Porto Alegre

The Municipal Department of Water and Sewage (Dmae) has reported a rise in water meter thefts in Porto Alegre. During the third quarter of 2026, theft occurrences increased by 12 percent, with 174 units stolen compared to 154 during the same period in 2025.

In the first nine months of 2026, a total of 505 cases were recorded, representing a 15 percent increase over the 438 cases reported during the same period in 2025. Officials stated that these thefts leave residents without water supply until replacements are made, while also creating costs for the public administration and reducing consumption revenue.

The thefts are reportedly driven by the presence of metal alloys in the meters, which are targeted for resale in the clandestine recycling market. Under the Brazilian Penal Code, theft is a crime punishable by one to four years of imprisonment and a fine.