SIERRA Leone’s Ministry of Information announced on Sunday that it is investigating claims that Dutch cocaine trafficker Jos Leijdekkers, one of Europol’s most wanted fugitives, is residing in the country under high-level protection. The government’s response followed reports by Reuters linking Leijdekkers to influential figures in Sierra Leone.
Leijdekkers, 33, was sentenced in absentia to 24 years in prison by a Dutch court in June 2024 for smuggling over 7 tonnes of cocaine into Europe. According to two sources who spoke to Reuters, he has been in Sierra Leone since at least early 2023.
Government denies knowledge
In a statement, the Ministry of Information said Sierra Leone’s police are prepared to cooperate with the Dutch government, Interpol, and other international law enforcement agencies regarding the case.
‘The president attended numerous family events during the festive season and has no knowledge about the identity or allegations involving the individual in question,’ the statement added.
Sierra Leone’s government stressed that it has not received formal communication from any country or organisation about Leijdekkers and reaffirmed its commitment to preventing the nation from becoming a safe haven for organised crime.
Verified reports link Leijdekkers to key figures
Reuters claims it verified videos and photos showing Leijdekkers at a church Mass in Sierra Leone on January 1, 2025. In the footage, he is seen sitting two rows behind President Julius Maada Bio.
Leijdekkers was also seated beside a woman identified by three sources as Agnes Bio, the president’s daughter. These sources claimed Agnes Bio is married to Leijdekkers, but Reuters was unable to independently confirm the relationship. Requests for comment sent to Agnes Bio and Leijdekkers’ former Dutch lawyer went unanswered.
Allegations of high-level protection
The reports also allege that Leijdekkers has been benefiting from high-level protection while residing in Sierra Leone. According to international law enforcement officials, the country has become a key transshipment point for cocaine originating in Latin America and destined for Europe.
A spokesperson for Dutch prosecutors told Reuters that Leijdekkers has been living in Sierra Leone for at least six months, making the case a matter of international concern.
Sierra Leone’s stance on organised crime
While the government investigates these claims, the Ministry of Information reiterated its zero-tolerance approach to organised crime, stating, ‘Sierra Leone is resolute in ensuring it does not become a haven for criminal networks.’
The situation underscores the growing challenge of transnational drug trafficking and the complexities of addressing organised crime in West Africa.
