Wanted Dutch Drug Kingpin Lurking in Sierra Leone

Dutch authorities have confirmed that Jos Leijdekkers, a 33-year-old wanted fugitive, is currently living in Sierra Leone, marking a significant development in international drug trafficking investigations. Leijdekkers, who was sentenced to 24 years in prison in absentia by a Rotterdam court last June for smuggling over seven tonnes of cocaine, is considered a significant player in the drug trade. Prosecutor Wim de Bruin labeled Leijdekkers’ return to the Netherlands as "of the highest priority," emphasizing ongoing investigative efforts, albeit limited in detail due to the sensitive nature of the case.

A spokesperson from the Dutch Public Prosecution Service stated that Leijdekkers, known by his alias "Bolle Jos," has been in Sierra Leone for approximately six months and was previously believed to be in Turkey. While Sierra Leonean authorities have yet to address these claims, sightings of Leijdekkers have emerged, notably in January when he appeared in a social media video alongside the President's wife during a church service, although the authenticity of this footage remains unverified.

Dutch police have offered a considerable reward of $210,000 for information that could lead to Leijdekkers’ capture, underscoring the gravity of his criminal profile. Leijdekkers is included on Europol's most-wanted list, highlighting the broader implications of drug trafficking in West Africa, which serves as a crucial transit hub for cocaine from Latin America. This context was amplified earlier this year when Sierra Leone recalled its ambassador from Guinea following the discovery of cocaine in an embassy vehicle, a situation that continues to raise concerns about the region's involvement in drug trade operations.