MONROVIA – The Liberia National Police (LNP) Anti-Robbery Unit has apprehended multiple individuals in the St. Paul Bridge community for allegedly scamming a woman of over US$3,000 under the guise of providing a travel opportunity.

The unannounced raid took place at around 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 15, in the Tweh Farm area near St. Mary’s Parish. Witnesses reported that the operation shocked residents and raised concerns about the rising prevalence of scams in the community.

Victim Details Scheme
The victim, a woman in her late 20s who requested anonymity, reported that the suspects promised to facilitate travel abroad but instead left victims in exploitative situations involving forced labor or prostitution. “They convinced me I’d travel to a developed country, but it was all a lie,” the victim said.

Police disclosed that the victim, upon realizing the deceit, contacted authorities to expose the scheme. "This is a recurring issue where victims are tricked into giving large sums of money with false promises of better opportunities abroad," an LNP officer remarked.

Seized Evidence
Police seized numerous items tied to the operation, including passport-sized photos of potential victims, desktop computers, files, and other materials. Suspects were transported to LNP headquarters for further investigation, as community members looked on.

Eyewitnesses claimed some suspects wore coordinated uniforms—sky-blue shirts and navy trousers—suggesting they were part of an organized group, while others were identified as newer recruits coerced into joining after losing their own money.

Residents Express Frustration
The building where the suspects operated is reportedly known for housing alleged Q-NET operators and has no permanent residents. Locals expressed frustration, alleging that similar arrests had been made in the past, but the suspects were released and resumed their activities in the same location.

“This isn’t the first time they’ve been arrested by various security forces, including the Armed Forces of Liberia,” one resident claimed. “They always come back, and we don’t know why.”

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the scam, with hopes of bringing a permanent resolution to the recurring issue.