UK Opens Record 81 Water Firm Criminal Probes

A record 81 criminal investigations into water companies have been launched in England since the last general election, representing the largest crackdown on sewage pollution in the country's history. Thames Water and Anglian Water are the primary targets, with Thames Water alone under 31 probes as it deals with severe financial instability. The surge in enforcement is supported by a 400% increase in Environment Agency inspections and mounting public anger over river and sea pollution. The government has signaled tougher accountability, stating that water company executives could face up to five years in prison and firms may be fined hundreds of millions of pounds. While the new measures are welcomed by campaigners and opposition politicians, critics argue that without sustained regulatory funding, the response may fall short. In response to public and political outcry, Thames Water has withdrawn plans to award executive bonuses.