By: Julius Konton
The Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA) of Liberia has strongly condemned what it described as an unlawful physical attack and deliberate vandalization of one of its official vehicles while transporting staff on official duty in Monrovia.
According to the Agency, the incident occurred on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, along the Jallah Town stretch of the Capitol Bypass, a major thoroughfare in the Liberian capital.
The vehicle was en route to the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL), where FIA officials were scheduled to carry out statutory responsibilities in line with the Agency’s anti-money laundering and financial oversight mandate.
Valuables Allegedly Looted
Eyewitness accounts indicate that overzealous protesters allegedly intercepted the vehicle and forcefully removed valuables belonging to FIA staff members.
Items reportedly taken include bank checks, mobile phones, and undisclosed amounts of cash, raising concerns about the safety of public servants performing essential state functions.
While no fatalities were reported, the FIA described the incident as deeply troubling, emphasizing that such acts undermine institutional operations and threaten the rule of law.
FIA Cites Constitutional Protections
In a statement released, the Agency stressed that while it respects the constitutional right to peaceful assembly, the actions allegedly carried out during the protest run contrary to Liberia’s legal framework.
Article 17 of the 1986 Liberian Constitution guarantees citizens the right to assemble and petition the government peacefully.
However, the FIA noted that this right does not extend to violence, vandalism, or theft, particularly against public institutions.
“Peaceful protest is a democratic right, but criminal acts committed under the guise of assembly violate the Constitution and erode public trust,” the statement said.
Police Intervention and Investigation Underway
The FIA commended the Liberia National Police (LNP) for its swift intervention, which reportedly prevented further escalation and restored calm to the area.
The police have since launched an investigation and announced measures to identify and hold accountable those responsible, in accordance with Liberian law.
Law enforcement sources indicate that incidents involving protest-related vandalism have risen in urban Monrovia in recent years, particularly during high-tension demonstrations.
Official crime data show that public property damage during protests remains a recurring challenge, accounting for a notable portion of disturbance-related police reports in the capital.
Public Appeal for Information
As investigations continue, the FIA has appealed to Liberians and residents of all nationalities to cooperate with authorities by providing credible and verifiable information that may assist the LNP in establishing the facts surrounding the incident.
The Agency emphasized that accountability based on evidence is essential not only to resolve the current case, but also to deter future attacks on public institutions and personnel.
Safeguarding Institutional Integrity
The FIA reaffirmed its commitment to executing its national mandate, including supporting financial transparency, combating illicit financial flows, and strengthening Liberia’s compliance with international financial standards.
“Attacks on public institutions threaten governance, economic stability, and national security,” the statement concluded.
“The FIA remains resolute in its work and calls on all citizens to uphold the law and protect the integrity of state institutions.”
