According to the current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication, Liberia has been assessed as a Level 1 “Exercise normal precautions” country.
Overall Crime and Safety Situation
U.S. Embassy Monrovia does not assume responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of the persons or firms appearing in this report. The American Citizens’ Services unit (ACS) cannot recommend a particular individual or location, and assumes no responsibility for the quality of service provided.
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Monrovia as being a CRITICAL-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
Please review OSAC’s Liberia-specific page for original OSAC reporting, consular alerts, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private-sector representatives with an OSAC password.
With a population of approximately 4.6 million people, Liberia is comprised of 15 regional counties with the capital city of Monrovia in Montserrado County. The Republic of Liberia has struggled to find its footing politically and economically over recent decades. Crime, poverty, and corruption have stymied the nation’s progress after two decades of civil war and following the regional Ebola crisis that wreaked havoc on Liberia.
The Liberian government is eager to see investors and technical experts return so that it can restart development programs. However, Western private-sector presence remains somewhat limited. Foreigners, mainly Lebanese, South Asians, and to a much lesser extent, other West African nationals tend to dominate commerce and the merchant business in Liberia.
Crime increased throughout the country in 2017, propelled in part by a weak economy and uncertainty about Liberia’s future. Approximately 75% of the population is unemployed and under age 35. The gross domestic product (GDP) growth in 2017 was lackluster, and Liberia is on a very slow pace towards economic recovery. Most Liberians have very limited access to health care, education, or other government services.
Crime Threats
In 2017, there was an increase in both non-violent and violent crime. Most non-violent crimes are property crimes and are opportunistic. Common types of non-violent crimes include snatch-and-grabs of electronics, purses, bags, and backpacks, vehicular vandalism and vehicle theft. These crimes usually occur in densely populated areas. The majority of snatch-and-grabs are committed by males between the ages of 13 to 25, and they typically occur around areas of congregations such as shopping centers, parking lots, and intersections where pedestrians wait to board commercial vehicles. Street beggars may attempt to snatch valuables while soliciting money.
Traveling alone and in isolated and/or unfamiliar areas is not recommended; travel in groups of two or more people. Travelers are cautioned when visiting any public beach; the areas of greater Monrovia known as Red Light, Waterside, Congo Town, ELWA Junction; and all market areas. Petty crimes and armed robberies are common in those areas, especially after dark.
Violent crime tends affect local nationals rather than foreigners. Violent crimes consist of robberies, burglaries, muggings, and assaults. The perpetrators are usually armed with a knife or firearm. Victims should comply with assailants’ demands, as situations can escalate to violence and result in injury if victims resist. Criminals may carry knives and sometimes work in small groups to target victims. Travelers should exercise increased caution in urban areas and public beaches due to crime.
Sexual assault and rape are the most commonly reported violent crimes. The overwhelming majority of sexual assault victims are Liberian, and many are minors. Sexual violence against expatriates in Liberia is uncommon, but has been reported at public beaches.
Vandalism and theft of unattended vehicles also increased in 2017. Vandalism crimes were usually committed by unsupervised youths who reside in the neighborhood where the vehicle was parked. Vehicle thefts are usually committed by organized criminal syndicates that operate internationally. Most criminals receive silent support from members of Liberia’s justice department and law enforcement. Stolen vehicles are rarely recovered.
Residential burglaries are more frequent during the rainy season. Ineffective perimeter walls, minimal lighting, inadequate window grilles, and poorly paid or ill-trained guards make home invasions more inviting to potential burglars.
Carjackings and organized kidnappings are rare.
The incidence of credit card theft and fraud is low in Liberia compared to other parts of Africa and to the U.S., as Liberia is primarily a cash economy. Credit card terminals do exist in major hotels and some supermarkets. Credit cards are accepted at a very limited number of hotels and shops; however, the RSO recommends travelers use cash due to a high incidence of fraud. Travelers are reminded to inform their credit card providers of their intention to use their cards in Liberia and to monitor bank statements after transactions in case of skimming. For more information, please review OSAC’s Report, “The Overseas Traveler’s Guide to ATM Skimmers & Fraud.”
Visitors are encouraged to use the formal banking system instead of transactions through the street-side money changers. U.S. dollars but not U.S. coins are used in Liberia. When using U.S. dollars, Liberian dollars are provided in lieu of coins. Most prices in hotels and restaurants are denominated in U.S. dollars. Wire transfers through Western Union or MoneyGram are also available. Several banks in Monrovia provide wire transfer services and will accept traveler’s checks.
Cybersecurity Issues
Liberia was rocked by an enormous distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack that crippled its internet infrastructure in October 2016. The DDoS attack was reported to have infected computers and many internet-connected devices (DVR players, digital cameras). However, no major cybersecurity incidents were reported in Liberia in 2017. Cybercrime remains a low to moderate threat due to the lack of electricity and computer ownership.
Advance-fee fraud schemes are prevalent throughout Africa and pose a danger of serious financial loss to victims. These scams, often known as ‘419’ scams after the section of Nigeria’s criminal code addressing financial crimes, typically begin with an unsolicited communication (usually e-mail, text message, dating site correspondence, or social media message) from an unknown entity who promises quick financial gain if victims make advance payment for fees or services. This initial payment may be for hospital bills, inheritance, mineral exploration rights, land or property development, legal documents, or taxes. These advance payments can be exorbitant, and the final payoff does not exist; the purpose of the scam is to collect the upfront payments as frequently and for as long as possible.
Other Areas of Concern
Borders areas with neighboring states are more susceptible to criminality due to the lack of security force presence at most border crossing areas.
Public beaches and Red Light in Monrovia are less safe due sparse law enforcement and security presence. However, there are no areas that are designated "off-limits" by the RSO. Maintaining personal security awareness and using common sense crime mitigation strategies can reduce the likelihood of victimization. Travelers should avoid walking alone and in isolated areas, and should minimize displays of wealth.
Transportation-Safety Situation
For more information, please review OSAC’s Report, “Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights.”
Road Safety and Road Conditions
In general, the main roads in and around Monrovia are in acceptable condition. In rural areas, approximately 6.9% of the roads are paved (this area is commonly referred to as “Upcountry”). A six-month rainy season contributes to rapid deterioration of unpaved and/or unmaintained roads. Many regions are inaccessible even with well-equipped 4x4 vehicles during this period.
The most prevalent danger posed to U.S. citizens is vehicle accidents, especially at night. Pedestrians, local drivers, motorcyclists, and taxi operators often demonstrate blatant disregard for rules of the road and the safety of other motorists. Transportation accidents occur frequently for several reasons, including poor maintenance of vehicles, hazardous road conditions, aggressive drivers, and widespread disregard for traffic laws. A few years ago, the government enforced new restrictions that limit the access of motorcyclists to central Monrovia to reduce traffic congestion and the hazards motorcycles pose to drivers in the area.
There have been repeated occurrences of mob violence taking place following traffic accidents, particularly those involving motorcycle (Pehn-Pehn or KeKe) operators. Regardless of fault, motorists must exercise extreme caution and immediately seek the intervention of the LNP if a crowd begins to form and the situation cannot be defused.
Snatch-and-grab robberies from vehicles with unlocked doors or rolled down windows do occur.
Official personnel are not allowed to drive outside of Monrovia at night due to poor lighting and road infrastructure. For more information on self-driving, please review OSAC’s Report “Driving Overseas: Best Practices.
Public Transportation Conditions
Official U.S. citizens are prohibited from using commercial taxis, buses, and motorbike taxis due to elevated risk of crime, poor maintenance of vehicles, lack of driver training, and poor service reliability. Car services are allowed as long as they are obtained through a reputable company.
Aviation/Airport Conditions
Like other roads in Liberia, the road to the airport is not illuminated at night, resulting in an increased risk of traffic accidents. Arrival at the airport can be confusing and overwhelming for the average traveler; the terminal is crowded and poorly designed, resulting in long lines to clear immigration and frequent pushing and shoving in the baggage area, as passengers try to retrieve luggage. Taxi service from the airport is unreliable; visitors are advised to pre-arrange transportation to Monrovia.
Terrorism Threat
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Monrovia as being a LOW-threat location for terrorist activity directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
Local, Regional, and International Terrorism Threats/Concerns
There exists a real and growing threat in West Africa due to the operational presence of multiple terrorist groups, including regional affiliates of al-Qa’ida and ISIS. Liberia has been spared terrorist attacks but remains vulnerable to terrorist activities due to its porous borders, regional instability, and increasing terrorist attacks targeting Western interests, foreigners, and African governments. Al-Qa’ida-affiliated terrorist groups based in Mali have launched multiple attacks on soft and hard targets frequented by foreigners in major cities in West Africa, including locations considered to be outside of the traditional areas of operation for these groups.
Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Monrovia as being a MEDIUM-threat location for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
On October 10 and December 26, 2017, Liberia conducted its third presidential and legislative elections, both with peaceful outcomes. Both the U.S. government and United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) have been strong supporters of the Government of Liberia, with UNMIL playing a critical role in maintaining peace and security, as Liberia emerged from civil war. In July 2016, the Liberian government assumed full responsibility for the country’s security.
Civil Unrest
Given Liberia’s stagnant economy, high unemployment, systemic corruption, limited access to public services, and ongoing political tensions, there is the potential for civil unrest. Incidents of unrest may trigger rapidly escalating public protests and demonstrations. During 2017, there were numerous protests, including some instances of violence and civil disorder, over public dissatisfaction with wages, limited access to healthcare, and poor living and working conditions. However, Liberian security services have demonstrated their capability to control and resolve instances of civil disorder. U.S. citizens should avoid large gatherings, as even peaceful demonstrations can become confrontational and escalate to violence.
Post-specific Concerns
Environmental Hazards
The rainy season (May-November) makes Monrovia the wettest capital in the world. Heavy rains can cause severe flooding and can wash out most roads in the country. Deep mud and puddles require 4x4 vehicles when traveling outside Monrovia.
Critical Infrastructure
Liberia has limited critical infrastructure.
Liberia depends on cellular phone networks for voice communications. Landline telephone service is virtually non-existent.
The vast majority of homes and businesses have no electricity, and those that do largely depend on home generators. In addition, most institutions depend on truck delivery for water. In December 2016, the Liberia Electricity Corporation with the assistance of the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) re-opened the Mt. Coffee hydropower plant that generates electricity for Monrovia, though transmission and distribution challenges remain.
Economic Concerns
U.S. citizens interested in business ventures should be aware that corruption is endemic throughout Liberia’s institutions. Counterfeit documents and fraudulent licenses are easy to obtain. American citizens who are interested in business ventures would do well to know and fully vet the business industry and individuals with whom they seek a partnership.
Personal Identity Concerns
Foreigners have been targeted based on their race/ethnicity.
Homosexuality is illegal. The Liberian senate voted unanimously to criminalize same-sex marriages in 2012. Members of the LGBTI community face a maximum penalty of 1 year imprisonment or a maximum fine of $1,000 Liberian dollars if caught engaging in same-sex sexual activity. The LGBTI community members may be subject to discrimination and verbal/physical attacks. LGBTI persons have reported being victim to forced evictions when landlords discovered their sexual orientation.
Police Response
Due to a lack of resources, the police are very limited in its ability to respond to criminal acts or provide full services to crime victims. Travelers should anticipate that stolen property will not be recovered, nor will perpetrators be brought to justice. It is not uncommon for officers to request bribes at major intersections or police checkpoints during hours of darkness.
RSO advises that Embassy personnel and visitors treat police officers in the same manner they would interact with a U.S. law enforcement official. Ignoring reasonable lawful orders, becoming belligerent, or showing lack of respect will only exacerbate the situation and could result in your arrest.
How to Handle Incidents of Police Detention or Harassment
Incidents of police harassment, detention, or misconduct should be reported to the U.S. Embassy at: Switchboard: +231 (0)77 677 7000 or Marine Post One: +231 (0)77 677 7001
Crime Victim Assistance
The police can be contacted via the LNP Chief of Patrol at +231 (0)880-800-117.
If you are a victim of a crime and need to contact the U.S. Embassy, you can contact the Consular Section for American Citizen Services at: ConsularMonrovia@state.gov or +231 (0)77-677-7111
Police/Security Agencies
The primary law enforcement agency is the Liberia National Police (LNP), which has country-wide law enforcement authority.
Medical Emergencies
The 2014-16 Ebola outbreak exacerbated the dismal state of medical services in the country. Even prior to the crisis, medical facilities were poorly equipped, understaffed, and generally incapable of providing even basic services. Since the Ebola outbreak, medical supplies have remained extremely scarce, and some medicines are counterfeit, of poor quality, and/or distributed after their expiration date. Travelers should bring sufficient medication supplies with them for the duration of their stay, if possible, including over-the-counter drugs. For more information, please refer to OSAC’s Report, “Traveling with Medications.”
Contact Information for Available Medical Services
For medical assistance, please refer to U.S. Embassy Monrovia’s Medical Assistance page.
Air Ambulance Services
International SOS Air Ambulance Service (ISOS)
Contact Person: Dirk Loreth, ISOS Aviation Manager Europe, Middle East and Africa
Address: From Frankfurt, Johannesburg, Accra or Dakar
Office Phone: +49-6102-3588-453/+49-172-7666923/+33-1-5563-3155
Emergency Phone: +49-6102-358-8100 (EUR) or +011-215-245-4707 (USA)
Alarm Center: Frankfurt-(49) 6102-358-8100/Paris-(33) 155-633-155/Europe-(44) 20-8762-8008
Aspen Medical Liberia
Contact Person: Country Manager, 231 (0)770 029-511
Address: Intersection of 16th Street and Russell Ave, Sinkor, Monrovia
Appointments/General Information: 231 (0)770 029 511
Clinic Emergency Number: 231 (0)770 911 911
Services Available: Medical Emergency Assistance/Stabilization
Probable Response Time: 4-24 hours depending on the city of departure
Insurance Guidance
Doctors, clinics, and hospitals expect immediate cash payment for health services and, in many cases, before rendering service.
In the event of a serious emergency, medical evacuation is suggested, and medical evacuation insurance is also strongly suggested for those not covered by their employer.
Country-specific Vaccination and Health Guidance
Malaria is endemic, and travelers should consult their physician for anti-malaria medication prior to traveling.
Water-borne illnesses are also a concern. For more information, please refer to OSAC’s Report, “I’m Drinking What in My Water?.”
All travelers must have up-to-date immunizations and a yellow fever vaccination in their shot record.
The CDC offers additional information on vaccines and health guidance for Liberia.
OSAC Country Council Information
The OSAC Country Council in Monrovia meets about once per year. Interested private-sector security managers should contact OSAC’s Africa Team with any questions.
U.S. Embassy Location and Contact Information
Embassy Address and Hours of Operation
U.S. Embassy Monrovia, Liberia
502 Benson Street
Monrovia, Liberia
Embassy Hours of Operation: Mon-Thur, 0800-1730; Fri, 0800-1300
Consular Section Hours of Operation: Mon, Tues, Thur, 1400-1600
Embassy Contact Numbers
U.S. Embassy Switchboard: +231 77 677 7000
MSG Post One: +231 77 677 7001
Duty Officer: +231 77 723 1673
Website: http://monrovia.usembassy.gov
Embassy Guidance
U.S. citizens should have valid visas prior to arrival in Liberia. Airport visas are not issued except in extraordinary circumstances and by pre-arrangement.
U.S. citizens traveling to Liberia should register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to ensure they receive pertinent security updates and notices.
Additional Resources
Liberia Country Information Sheet
