By Twink Jones Gadama
In a dramatic turn of events, Lion Cage Security Services, a security company based in Mzuzu, has locked out the Northern Region Water Board (NRWB) over an unpaid debt of K98 million.
According to a senior official at Lion Cage Security Services, the company had been providing security services to the NRWB for several years, but the board had failed to pay for the services rendered.
“We have been patient with the NRWB for a long time, but they have consistently failed to pay us for our services,” said the official. “We have tried to engage them in discussions, but they have not been responsive. As a result, we have been left with no choice but to lock them out until they pay their debt.”
The lockout, which began early yesterday morning, has left the NRWB’s offices in Mzuzu inaccessible to staff and customers. The company’s security guards have been stationed at the entrance of the building, preventing anyone from entering or leaving the premises.
The NRWB has been struggling with financial difficulties in recent years, and the lockout by Lion Cage Security Services is just the latest in a series of challenges facing the board.
In a statement, the NRWB acknowledged the debt owed to Lion Cage Security Services and apologized for any inconvenience caused by the lockout.
“We are aware of the debt owed to Lion Cage Security Services and are working to resolve the issue as soon as possible,” said the statement. “We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the lockout and appreciate the patience and understanding of our customers and stakeholders.”
The lockout by Lion Cage Security Services has raised concerns about the financial management of the NRWB and the impact of the debt on the company’s operations.
“This is a clear indication of the financial mismanagement of the NRWB,” said a local resident. “How can a company that is responsible for providing water services to the people of Mzuzu fail to pay its debts? It’s unacceptable and something needs to be done about it.”
The lockout is expected to continue until the NRWB pays its debt to Lion Cage Security Services. In the meantime, customers of the NRWB are advised to seek alternative arrangements for accessing water services.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the NRWB will resolve the issue and restore normal operations. One thing is certain, however: the lockout by Lion Cage Security Services has brought attention to the financial challenges facing the NRWB and the need for urgent action to address them.
