Scam in LiberiaTheft
Pickpocketing in taxis in Liberia
How it works
Pickpocketing in taxis has been reported. A crowded vehicle can make it harder to notice someone taking belongings.
Warning signs
- Passengers are packed closely together.
- Your bag or pockets are difficult to watch.
How to avoid it
- Choose a taxi for your exclusive use.
- Keep your bag closed and on your lap.
- Keep your phone and wallet in secure pockets.
If it happens to you
Check your belongings once safe. Block stolen cards and report missing documents or valuables.
- Get to a safe, busy place or your accommodation. Do not chase a thief or resist an armed attacker.
- Seek medical help if you are injured.
- Contact your card issuer to block stolen cards. Secure accounts linked to a stolen phone.
- Write down what happened, including the time, location, vehicle details and items lost. Save any receipts or messages.
- Report the incident to police and ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your embassy if your passport is missing or you need assistance. Notify your insurer and keep copies of your records.
Questions
What is the pickpocketing in taxis scam in Liberia?
Pickpocketing in taxis has been reported. A crowded vehicle can make it harder to notice someone taking belongings.
How can I spot it early?
Passengers are packed closely together. Your bag or pockets are difficult to watch.
How do I avoid pickpocketing in taxis in Liberia?
Choose a taxi for your exclusive use. Keep your bag closed and on your lap. Keep your phone and wallet in secure pockets.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Check your belongings once safe. Block stolen cards and report missing documents or valuables.
Where in Liberia does this happen?
Taxis, particularly crowded shared taxis It has been reported in Monrovia.
How common is this scam in Liberia?
Occasional. The main concerns in Liberia are theft and robbery, especially in Monrovia, rather than elaborate tourist scams. Thieves may grab belongings through car windows, taxi robbery and pickpocketing have been reported, and requests for money or gifts can become persistent.
Are there similar scams in Liberia?
Yes: theft through car windows, armed street robbery.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft or robbery once you are safe. Ask your accommodation to help you find a police station. Request a report or reference number. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or verified contact details to block stolen cards and report any unauthorised payments. Your embassy or consulate: use official contact details for help with a stolen passport or a serious incident. Consider informing your embassy of your stay. Travel insurer: use the contact details in your policy. Keep the police report, receipts and a list of missing items.
Reviewed by @snuck