MONROVIA – The Financial Intelligence Agency of Liberia (FIA) has condemned the unlawful physical attacks and deliberate vandalization of one of its vehicles during the protests on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. The vehicle, which was transporting FIA staff to the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) for official duties, came under assault on the Jallah Town stretch of the Capitol Bypass.
In a press release issued Thursday, the FIA expressed dismay over the incident, describing it as “contrary to the doctrine of mass assembly” enshrined in Article 17 of the Liberian Constitution. The Agency noted that the protestors’ actions went beyond lawful demonstration, resulting in the theft of valuable property belonging to FIA staff, including bank checks, mobile phones, and physical cash.
Eyewitnesses described the attackers as “overzealous” protesters who deliberately targeted the FIA vehicle, leaving staff traumatized and operations disrupted. The incident underscores concerns about the vulnerability of government personnel during mass demonstrations and the challenges of maintaining public order amid protests.
While condemning the attack, the FIA commended the Liberia National Police (LNP) for its timely intervention, which prevented further escalation of violence. According to the Agency, the LNP has already begun implementing measures to identify and hold those responsible accountable under Liberian law.
“The FIA frowns at this unfortunate action, which undermines lawful public assembly and the safety of government staff carrying out their mandated duties,” the press release stated.
The Agency further appealed to Liberians and residents from all walks of life to provide any useful information to the Liberia National Police. Such cooperation, FIA emphasized, is vital to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice and that similar incidents are prevented in the future.
Security officials confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and those responsible for vandalizing the FIA vehicle will be pursued based on evidence and due process. The FIA stressed that the attack not only violated property rights but also threatened the integrity of its operations in monitoring financial transactions and ensuring regulatory compliance.
The incident comes amid heightened public demonstrations targeting various government policies. FIA officials urged all protest organizers to ensure that demonstrations remain peaceful and that government personnel and assets are not subjected to intimidation or damage.
“We call on citizens to exercise their constitutional rights responsibly and to respect the legal framework that protects both public and private property,” the Agency stated.
The FIA reiterated its commitment to its mandate, emphasizing that staff will continue to carry out official functions despite the challenges posed by violent protests. The Agency assured the public that financial oversight and intelligence operations will continue unabated, in line with national laws and international best practices.
