Scam in GuineaFake officials
Military-style roadblocks demanding money and valuables in Guinea
How it works
People in military uniforms set up makeshift roadblocks. They demand money, search belongings and take valuable items. A uniform alone does not establish their authority.
Warning signs
- A makeshift barricade blocks the road.
- Uniformed people demand money and search personal bags.
- People handling your belongings start keeping valuable items.
How to avoid it
- Discuss the route with a trusted local contact before leaving.
- Keep valuables out of sight and carry fewer valuable items.
- Keep document copies separately from the originals.
If it happens to you
Avoid sudden movements or physical resistance. Put your safety first. Once safely away, record the location and details and contact your embassy.
- Get to a safe place. Do not chase a thief or resist an armed attacker. Seek medical care if injured.
- Freeze stolen cards and contact your bank or card issuer. Ask whether a recent payment can be stopped or disputed.
- Secure a stolen phone and affected accounts. Use another device to lock the phone and change important passwords.
- Write down the time, place, losses and what happened. Save messages, receipts and payment records without putting yourself at risk.
- Consult your embassy, especially if your passport was taken or officials were involved. Ask about safe reporting options and document replacement.
- Ask about making a police report if safe and practical. Keep any report reference and contact your insurer if you have cover.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Government adviceGuinea travel adviceCanadian authorities warn that armed groups and military troops erect improvised roadblocks, including on Conakry’s airport road, where payment may be demanded.Read on Government advice
- Government adviceSafety and security - Guinea travel advice - GOV.UKBritish authorities report widespread extortion at police and militia roadblocks and warn that checkpoints can serve as a pretext for armed robbery.Read on Government advice
- Travel blogGuinea – Elizabeth Around the WorldThe traveller described repeated checkpoints staffed by heavily armed soldiers where she surrendered cash, stationery and food to continue her journey.Read on Travel blog
Questions
What is the military-style roadblocks demanding money and valuables scam in Guinea?
People in military uniforms set up makeshift roadblocks. They demand money, search belongings and take valuable items. A uniform alone does not establish their authority.
How can I spot it early?
A makeshift barricade blocks the road. Uniformed people demand money and search personal bags. People handling your belongings start keeping valuable items.
How do I avoid military-style roadblocks demanding money and valuables in Guinea?
Discuss the route with a trusted local contact before leaving. Keep valuables out of sight and carry fewer valuable items. Keep document copies separately from the originals.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Avoid sudden movements or physical resistance. Put your safety first. Once safely away, record the location and details and contact your embassy.
Where in Guinea does this happen?
Roads outside Conakry It has been reported in Conakry.
How common is this scam in Guinea?
Occasional. Guinea has a high risk of theft, demands for bribes and business fraud. Travellers should take particular care at airports, markets, checkpoints, and near hotels and restaurants used by foreigners. Other problems include inflated opening prices and misleading promises about taxi departure times.
Are there similar scams in Guinea?
Yes: police and soldier bribe demands.
Who can I report it to?
Your embassy or consulate: contact it through its official contact details after a crime. Explain any threats, official involvement or missing passport. Ask for help with next steps. Local police: if safe and practical, ask to report the theft or fraud and request a written record. Police assistance may be ineffective, and corruption is a concern. Consult your embassy if unsure how to proceed. Your bank or card issuer: use its official app or contact number to freeze cards, report unauthorised payments and ask about recovering money. Your travel insurer: contact the claims team through your policy details. Keep receipts, a list of losses and any police report reference.
Reviewed by @snuck