24 Jan 2025

Mafia-style crimes / Youth gangs in Liberia: motives, structure and illicit economies

This paper focuses on youth gangs as a distinct criminal group involved in violent crimes in Monrovia’s urban centres.

Gangsterism in Liberia lies at the intersection of a society ravaged by civil war, a declining economy, social exclusion of a bulging underclass, collusion between state officials and illicit markets, and inefficient law enforcement. For youths, gang involvement offers a sense of belonging, a surrogate family structure, and a means of protection and economic benefits. Gangs are also available for hire by politicians, criminal networks and business people seeking to intimidate their opponents or protect properties.

About the authors

Ndubuisi Christian Ani is a Senior Researcher and Project Coordinator at the Institute for Security Studies’ ENACT project.

Feyi Ogunade is ENACT’s Regional Organised Crime Observatory Coordinator – West Africa.

John Kamma is Executive Director of the Citizens Bureau for Development and Productivity in Liberia.

Image: ENACT

Related

More +

EU Flag
ENACT is funded by the European Union
ISS Donors
Interpol
Global
ENACT is implemented by the Institute for Security Studies in partnership with
INTERPOL and the Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime.