Scam in CameroonTaxis
Theft or attack by shared-taxi passengers in Cameroon
How it works
Other passengers may rob or attack someone sharing the taxi. Phones and wallets are among the items stolen. This risk is reported across Cameroon and specifically in Yaoundé.
Warning signs
- The taxi picks up strangers along the way.
- The driver crowds extra passengers into the vehicle.
- The driver's licence photo does not appear to match the driver.
How to avoid it
- Use a trusted taxi arranged in advance through your hotel or a friend.
- Hire the whole taxi and agree the fare before leaving.
- Avoid travelling alone in shared taxis at night.
- In Yaoundé, check the operating licence hanging from the rear-view mirror.
If it happens to you
Do not fight back. Hand over belongings if threatened, then seek help once you are safe.
- Get to a safe place. During a robbery, do not resist, chase anyone or try to recover belongings by force.
- Check for injuries. Seek medical help if you have been hurt.
- Block stolen cards immediately. Secure a stolen phone and change passwords for important accounts.
- Write down what happened. Save receipts, messages, booking details and any vehicle information you already have.
- Report the incident to the police. Ask for a written report or reference number if available.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing or you need consular help, contact your embassy or consulate.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the theft or attack by shared-taxi passengers scam in Cameroon?
Other passengers may rob or attack someone sharing the taxi. Phones and wallets are among the items stolen. This risk is reported across Cameroon and specifically in Yaoundé.
How can I spot it early?
The taxi picks up strangers along the way. The driver crowds extra passengers into the vehicle. The driver's licence photo does not appear to match the driver.
How do I avoid theft or attack by shared-taxi passengers in Cameroon?
Use a trusted taxi arranged in advance through your hotel or a friend. Hire the whole taxi and agree the fare before leaving. Avoid travelling alone in shared taxis at night. In Yaoundé, check the operating licence hanging from the rear-view mirror.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not fight back. Hand over belongings if threatened, then seek help once you are safe.
Where in Cameroon does this happen?
Shared taxis that pick up other passengers along the route, especially at night. It has been reported in Yaoundé.
How common is this scam in Cameroon?
Occasional. Petty theft is common in Cameroon, and pickpockets are a particular concern in crowded parts of Yaoundé. Travellers should also watch for unwanted paid luggage help, ticket scalpers and high opening prices at markets. Shared-taxi theft, armed robbery and vehicle crime can cause more serious losses.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery or fraud once you are safe. In Limbe, visitors are specifically advised to report crimes to the police. Ask for a written record if available. Police corruption and limited effectiveness are concerns elsewhere in Cameroon. Card issuer or bank: use the bank's official app or a verified contact number to block stolen cards and report payments you did not authorise. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate for a lost passport, replacement travel documents or consular support after a serious crime. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through the details on your policy. Keep receipts, incident notes and any police report for a claim. Relevant transport or service provider: raise a ticket problem, disputed fee or undisclosed charge through the provider's official customer-service channel. Keep proof of payment.
Reviewed by @snuck