The Sierra Leonean government has launched an investigation into reports that Dutch drug kingpin Jos Leijdekkers is residing in the country.
Leijdekkers, convicted in absentia by a Dutch court for smuggling over 7 tonnes of cocaine, is considered one of Europe’s most wanted fugitives.
Sources have indicated that Leijdekkers has been living in Sierra Leone since at least early 2023, raising concerns about potential high-level protection within the country.
These allegations have sparked international scrutiny, with the Sierra Leonean government emphasizing its commitment to combating organized crime and assuring international cooperation in the investigation.
The country’s Information Ministry has acknowledged receiving reports of Leijdekkers’ presence and stated that the police are ready to collaborate with Dutch authorities and international law enforcement agencies.
This incident highlights the challenges faced by many African nations in combating transnational crime and the importance of international cooperation in addressing these issues.
