MONTROVIA – Liberia’s US ambassador, Mark Toner, issued a harsh warning to Liberians in light of his involvement in illegal entry into the United States or in visa fraud. In a public operation released Monday, the ambassador highlighted the serious consequences of violating US immigration laws and urged Liberians to deter Liberians from leaving friends and relatives who live illegally in America there.
“Nearly 20% of Liberians traveling to the US on tourist visas are unable to return home at expiration,” Ambassador Toner revealed. “Liberia is currently ranked as the 10th highest country with the world’s surplus rate. Many Liberians rely on the deception of their desperate efforts to secure US visas.”
The warning comes against the backdrop of the drastic repression of immigrants by President Donald Trump’s administration. Toner said the US government has taken aggressive steps to block illegal immigration, and enforcement, arrests and deportation have become more frequent.
“If you try to enter the United States illegally, you will face serious consequences, from prison to permanent visa bans if you forge information and get a visa, work without proper approval, or overstaying your visa,” the ambassador warned.
According to Toner, these enhanced measurements already show results. “Illegal border intersections fell 94% in February 2025 compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, undocumented immigrant arrests in the US have skyrocketed alertness by 627%,” he revealed.
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The US has also begun cracking down on illegal immigration enablers, including smugglers, human traffickers and even government officials from other countries. Ambassador Toner highlighted the new policies introduced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This imposes visa restrictions on foreign officials who do not oppose illegal immigration.
“Immigrants, customs and port officials are under more scrutiny now,” he said. “People who support or bet illegal immigrants are responsible.”
Toner also warned of uneven travel routes, particularly dangers associated with dangerous journeys to the US border. “Immigrants are frequently exploited by criminal syndicates. They face violence, fear and even death,” he said.
Conclusion of his statement, the ambassador appealed to Liberians to comply with US immigration laws and to avoid dangerous travel decisions. “Illegal entry is not just a violation of American law. It puts your safety, your family, and your future,” he emphasized.
“If you know someone in the US illegally, the best thing you can do is encourage them to return voluntarily. Make the right decision. Follow the law. Don’t risk your future,” urged Toner.
