Monrovia, Liberia – The Liberia National Police (LNP) has arrested an armed man who allegedly attempted to rob the Ecobank branch on 11th Street in Sinkor in broad daylight at about 10:45am on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
According to officer Varnie Karn, a security guard, the suspect Emery Johnson entered the bank pretending to be a customer before launching an attack on one of the tellers. Eyewitnesses say the man brandished a handgun during the incident, creating panic among staff and customers.
Speaking to reporters shortly after the incident, a bank teller and one of the survivors of the attempted robbery, recounted the terrifying moment the suspect approached her counter under the guise of a transaction.
“He came in like any other customer. But when he reached, he suddenly grabbed the gun and pulled on my eyes,” eyewitnesses explained. “That’s when the lady hit the alarm, and thankfully, the Liberia National Police responded quickly and arrested him before he could escape.”
Security guard confirmed that no injuries were reported and no money or property was taken during the incident. The bank’s alarm system and swift police response were credited for averting what could have been a tragic situation.
The suspect, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, was immediately taken into custody and is currently undergoing interrogation at the Liberia National Police Headquarters.
Authorities say this appears to be the first attempted bank robbery of its kind in Liberia’s recent history, particularly in broad daylight and in such a high-traffic area.
Ecobank officials have since restored operations and reassured customers of their safety and the integrity of their security systems.
The Liberia National Police says an investigation is ongoing and further details will be provided as they become available.
