In a recent operation conducted by the Águas de Casimiro utility, authorities discovered 40 illegal water connections in the municipality of Casimiro de Abreu, located in the Região dos Lagos of Rio de Janeiro. Over the span of three days, approximately 120 residences were inspected as part of the crackdown on unauthorized access to the water supply. This exercise reflects ongoing efforts to regulate usage and ensure compliance with public utility standards.

The identified irregularities include public network diversions and improperly installed water meters. Following the findings, utility teams proceeded to cut off the illegal connections, immediately terminating water supplies to the affected homes. Such infractions are treated seriously under Brazilian law, specifically under Article 155 of the Penal Code, which classifies these acts as theft and subject to fines, underscoring the legal ramifications of tampering with public utilities.

The utility highlighted that illegal connections, often referred to as "gatos," can have broader implications on water distribution, especially during high-demand periods. Residents who engage in these unauthorized connections tend to disregard water conservation, impacting other users' access to water during peak consumption times. This operation emphasizes the importance of adherence to legal utility connections for the sustainable management of resources in the region.