GOSTIVAR, North Macedonia — Laboratory tests have confirmed fecal contamination in the drinking water supply of Gostivar, strengthening suspicions that polluted tap water is behind a large outbreak of gastrointestinal illness affecting thousands of residents.
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According to health authorities, water samples revealed high levels of coliform bacteria and the presence of Escherichia coli (E. coli), indicators of contamination by human or animal waste. Officials say the findings explain the surge in reported cases of stomach-related illnesses across the municipality.
More than 3,000 people have reportedly sought medical treatment after experiencing symptoms including diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and fever. Health authorities have urged residents not to consume tap water without first boiling it or using bottled water until the water supply is declared safe.
The incident has also triggered a criminal investigation. Prosecutors in Gostivar have launched proceedings against three officials, including the director of the local public water utility, over suspected environmental crimes related to the contamination of the public drinking water system.
Preliminary findings suggest the contamination may have occurred after additional pumps were connected to the water network to increase supply during a period of high demand. Investigators believe the pumps may have drawn water from an unsafe surface source, allowing contaminated water to enter the municipal distribution system.
Authorities are continuing to collect evidence and conduct further testing to determine the full extent of the contamination and establish individual responsibility.
The case has raised serious concerns about the safety of public water infrastructure and the oversight of municipal water systems in North Macedonia. Residents remain under precautionary measures while officials work to restore safe drinking water.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are expected to release additional information as laboratory analyses and the criminal inquiry progress.