In 2025, Sabesp, the Basic Sanitation Company of the State of São Paulo, unveiled alarming statistics regarding water theft in the Baixada Santista region. The company reported an average of six thefts per day, amounting to a total of 2,191 irregularities identified during 4,983 inspections conducted throughout the year. This figure marks a substantial increase compared to 2024, where only 1,191 cases were recorded, indicating a growing issue in water management and regulation in the area.

The inspections not only uncovered numerous thefts but allowed for the recovery of approximately 158 million liters of water, sufficient to supply around 40,000 individuals for a month. This stark contrast in recovered volumes between 2025 and 2024, where only about 23 million liters were reclaimed, suggests a more aggressive approach by Sabesp to tackle the escalating problem of water theft through enhanced surveillance and inspection methods.

Among the specific findings of the inspections, residential properties were the primary offenders, with 1,932 irregularities reported from 4,065 checks. Commercial establishments and the industrial sector also contributed to the overall numbers, although to a lesser extent. This trend highlights the critical need for strengthened regulatory efforts and public awareness initiatives to address the issue of water theft, which poses significant challenges not only for water supply but also for regional environmental sustainability.