More than 400 people have reportedly been treated for gastrointestinal illnesses and dehydration in Bronkhorstspruit and surrounding areas of Pretoria East as authorities investigate a possible link to the municipal water supply.

City of Tshwane Executive Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya confirmed today, Monday, 19 October 2026, that 408 patients had received treatment at healthcare facilities over the past week. No deaths have been reported.

Following an oversight visit to the Bronkhorstspruit Water Treatment Plant alongside Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation David Mahlobo and Rand Water CEO Sipho Mosai, Moya said the patients’ ages and laboratory tests suggested a possible water-related source.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) alleges that chlorination at the plant stopped on 24 September after the City ran out of chlorine. DA Tshwane mayoral candidate Cilliers Brink said the party had opened a criminal case against the municipality, accusing it of failing to maintain water quality and adequately warn residents.

Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina also criticised the City over its handling of the situation, particularly the alleged failure to alert residents promptly about potentially unsafe water.

The City has advised residents in Region 7 not to use municipal tap water for domestic purposes and to rely on water supplied by municipal tankers sourcing water from Cullinan.

Earlier reports recorded between 140 and 160 cases between 7 and 12 October, with patients treated at Bronkhorstspruit, Mamelodi, Steve Biko Academic and Wilgers hospitals.

Authorities are investigating the outbreak, while water-quality tests continue. The precise cause of the illnesses has not yet been conclusively established.

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