The Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority (VIWMA) advises St. Croix residents that there has been a rash of stolen manhole covers on St. Croix. Persons unknown are removing manhole covers, especially in low traffic or isolated areas, and selling them to local scrap metal companies.
This is causing a serious community health and safety issue as unsuspecting persons, animals or vehicles may fall into these opened manholes.
VIWMA is also issuing a strong warning to scrap metal companies that are reminded it is illegal to purchase any utility’s property without the proper documentation. Any company found to be in violation of their permit requirements will face legal implications.
Anyone observing the removal of manholes or being approached to purchase said manholes by anyone other than authorized utility personnel are asked to call the VIWMA or 911 to report this violation.
For more information, contact the Office of Communications Management at 715-9110 or 690-4218.