Scam in LiberiaTaxis
Taxi robbery in Liberia
How it works
A passenger is robbed during a taxi journey. Reports do not establish a single setup or show how often this happens.
Warning signs
- Other passengers are being collected along the route.
- The taxi is crowded.
How to avoid it
- Ask someone you trust to recommend a reliable driver.
- Hire the taxi for your exclusive use.
- Confirm before leaving that no other passengers will be picked up.
If it happens to you
Do not resist threats or weapons. Get to a safe place when possible, then report the incident.
- 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.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Government adviceSafety and security - Liberia travel advice - GOV.UKUK travel advice states that foreigners have reported assaults and robberies inside taxis in Liberia.Read on Government advice
- Government advice2026Liberia Travel Advice & Safety | SmartravellerAustralian travel advice reports that foreigners have experienced assaults and robberies while travelling in taxis.Read on Government advice
- Government adviceLiberiaNew Zealand travel advice reports that taxis have occasionally been targeted for robbery and recommends arranging transport through trusted contacts.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the taxi robbery scam in Liberia?
A passenger is robbed during a taxi journey. Reports do not establish a single setup or show how often this happens.
How can I spot it early?
Other passengers are being collected along the route. The taxi is crowded.
How do I avoid taxi robbery in Liberia?
Ask someone you trust to recommend a reliable driver. Hire the taxi for your exclusive use. Confirm before leaving that no other passengers will be picked up.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not resist threats or weapons. Get to a safe place when possible, then report the incident.
Where in Liberia does this happen?
Taxis, particularly 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.
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