• Jos Leijdekkers, a convicted Dutch drug lord, has found refuge in Sierra Leone.
• He was sentenced to 24 years in prison for smuggling over 7 tonnes of cocaine.
• Sierra Leone’s authorities have initiated an investigation into his presence and protection in the country.
• The Dutch police prioritize retrieving Leijdekkers to serve his sentence.
• A reward of €200,000 is offered for information leading to his arrest.

One of Europe’s most notorious fugitives, Dutch drug lord Jos Leijdekkers, has reportedly found refuge in Sierra Leone, raising alarm among international law enforcement agencies. Convicted for smuggling over 7 tonnes of cocaine, he was sentenced in absentia to 24 years by a Rotterdam court in June 2024. His fugitive status was compounded by his prior suspected residence in Turkey until he resurfaced in Sierra Leone, where he allegedly has high-level protection.

Sierra Leone’s Information Ministry has confirmed an investigation is underway regarding reports of Leijdekkers' presence. They stated that local police are prepared to collaborate with Dutch authorities and Interpol to address the situation. Information Minister Chernor Bah emphasized that President Julius Maada Bio attended family events during the festive season and has no knowledge of the ongoing investigations concerning Leijdekkers.

Recent reports, including video footage of a church service on January 1, purportedly show Leijdekkers seated near the President. Conversely, Dutch authorities have classified Leijdekkers, nicknamed Bolle Jos, as a key player in international cocaine trafficking, with a $210,000 reward offered for any information leading to his arrest, marking it the highest for any Dutch fugitive, as reported by the BBC.

Continuing efforts to curb drug trafficking have highlighted the significant role West Africa plays as a transshipment point for cocaine smuggled from Latin America to Europe. Last year, large seizures of cocaine, including one involving over 1.3 tonnes intended for the UK from Sierra Leone, underscored the urgency of addressing high-profile cases like Leijdekkers.

Sierra Leone's government faces pressing international scrutiny as the nation investigates the implications of providing sanctuary to one of Europe's most wanted criminals. The situation continues to develop, and authorities are committed to cooperating with international law enforcement to ensure accountability. For further details, visit Reuters.