Citizen’s Arrest Network Takes Action Against Anglian Water Amid Accountability Concerns

Basio badr

ago 3 hours

This morning, a significant event unfolded in South London as the Citizen’s Arrest Network (CAN) executed a citizen’s arrest on Mark Thurston, the CEO of Anglian Water. This incident occurred at Coulston South station, amidst a crowded platform of commuters. CAN, an activist group focused on accountability for the UK’s largest polluters, aims to address ongoing environmental issues and public health concerns stemming from corporate negligence.

Citizen’s Arrest Network Takes Action Against Anglian Water

Members of CAN approached eight water company executives last week, including Thurston, to present evidence of environmental damage caused by their companies. They highlighted issues such as illegal sewage spills and mismanagement of funds, which undermine public access to clean water.

Details of the Arrest

Date: This morning
Location: Coulston South station, South London
Person Arrested: Mark Thurston, CEO of Anglian Water
Charges: Three counts of public nuisance

During the arrest, activists surrounded Thurston to prevent him from leaving and formally read the charges citing Anglian Water’s failure to maintain its infrastructure, resulting in numerous sewage discharges. CAN accuses the company of neglecting its obligations, which leads to environmental degradation.

Recent Developments in Water Pricing

This action comes shortly after the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) authorized Anglian Water to increase its rates beyond previously established limits. Anglian Water had already implemented a 19% increase in water bills this year. In light of upcoming price hikes, the CMA has acknowledged the company’s need for additional revenue to address environmental compliance and maintain investor relations.

The CMA’s provisional approval allows for a total revenue increase of £556 million, anticipated to raise customer bills an average of 3% on top of a previously determined 24% hike. These financial adjustments have sparked discontent among consumers, who question the rationale behind increasing rates amidst a backdrop of persistent environmental failures.

Financial Strain and Public Outcry

Anglian Water’s financial situation presents a concerning picture. The company faces a staggering £7.72 billion debt, up 10% from the previous year. Notably, a substantial portion of consumer bill payments has historically been directed toward servicing this debt, despite large profits and significant executive bonuses being reported.

Executive Payments: Approximately £700,000 for Thurston in 2024, despite a bonus ban.
Dividends Payouts: Over £88 million in shareholder dividends reported.
Sewage Spills: 1,347 incidents reported in the first two months of 2025 alone.

Public Sentiment and Future Implications

Public dissatisfaction with private water companies is rising. Recent polling indicates that 74% of individuals support criminal charges against water company executives for environmental negligence. CAN’s Isobel Rock emphasized the need for accountability, asserting that water companies prioritize profits over environmental safety and public welfare.

The repeated failures of companies like Anglian Water raise critical questions about regulatory efficacy and corporate responsibility. As consumer frustration mounts, it remains to be seen how long these corporate entities can evade accountability for their environmental impacts.