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Lots of scams

Western Africa

Tourist scams in Liberia

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.
  1. 1 TheftCommonTheft through car windowsThieves reach into a stopped car and grab belongings within reach.MonroviaRead
  2. 2 TheftCommonArmed street robberyAn attacker uses threats or a weapon to take belongings. Armed gangs may carry machetes or guns.Monrovia 2Read
  3. 3 On the streetCommonPersistent requests for money or giftsSomeone asks for money or a gift and keeps asking until a visitor gives in. A request alone is not proof of fraud.Across the country 3Read
  4. 4 TaxisOccasionalTaxi robberyA passenger is robbed during a taxi journey. Reports do not establish a single setup or show how often this happens.Monrovia 3Read
  5. 5 TheftOccasionalPickpocketing in taxisPickpocketing in taxis has been reported. A crowded vehicle can make it harder to notice someone taking belongings.MonroviaRead

Where to stay alert

  • Redlight, MonroviaCar-window theft is a concern in this busy area. Armed gangs are also mentioned in its poorer areas.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Ask a trusted contact for a reliable driver.
  • Hire a taxi for your exclusive use and confirm that it will not collect other passengers.
  • Agree on the fare before leaving.
  • Transix lets passengers agree on a fare with a driver and track the journey.

Your belongings

  • Keep car doors locked and windows up.
  • Keep valuables out of sight and bags closed.
  • Avoid walking at night or entering deserted places.
  • Stay with others and leave if a normally busy area suddenly empties.
  • Do not walk alone in Palm Grove Cemetery on Center Street.

Money

  • Carry only the cash you need for the outing.
  • Avoid displaying a large amount of cash.
  • Keep replies to requests for money polite and brief.
  • Consider a local school or NGO if you want to support the community.

Where you stay

  • Ask your accommodation for local security advice and help finding a driver.
  • Prefer accommodation with guards and controlled access.
  • Arrange transport before going out after dark.

What travellers say about Liberia

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

What should I be most careful about in Liberia?

The main concerns described here are theft and robbery. Keep valuables hidden, avoid walking at night and arrange a reliable driver.

Should I use a shared taxi in Monrovia?

A taxi hired for your exclusive use is the safer choice advised here. Robbery and pickpocketing in taxis have been reported. Ask a trusted contact to recommend a driver.

How can I protect my belongings in traffic?

Keep windows up, doors locked and valuables out of sight. Thieves may reach into stopped cars, especially in busy areas such as Redlight.

Which places need extra care?

Redlight is linked to car-window theft and armed gangs. Do not walk alone in Palm Grove Cemetery on Center Street. The corner of Randall and Carey is also described as dangerous.

What should I do if someone keeps asking for money?

Keep your response polite and brief. A soft reply can help end the exchange. Move toward other people if the pressure continues. Asking for money alone does not prove a scam.

What should I do during an armed robbery?

Do not resist or make sudden movements. Once safe, seek help, report the incident and block any stolen cards.

How can I reduce the risk of taxi fare disputes?

Agree on the total fare and whether the ride is exclusive before leaving. Transix also lets passengers agree on a fare with a driver and track the journey.

Who can help if my passport is stolen?

Report the theft to police and contact your embassy or consulate through official contact details. Keep a copy of the police report for replacement documents and insurance.

Can my accommodation help me stay safe?

Ask staff for current local advice and help arranging a reliable driver. Accommodation with guards and controlled access can provide a safer base.

What should I do if my bank card or phone is stolen?

Contact your card issuer through its official app or verified contact details. Block the card and report unfamiliar payments. Secure accounts linked to a stolen phone as soon as possible.

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