Official announcements from the Dutch government or Sierra Leonean authorities

Dutch Drug Kingpin Jos Leijdekkers Found in Sierra Leone, €200,000 Reward Offered

Jan 26, 2025, 12:36 PM

Dutch drug kingpin Jos Leijdekkers, also known as 'Bolle Jos,' has been located in Sierra Leone, where he reportedly enjoys high-level protection. Leijdekkers, one of Europe's most wanted criminals, was convicted in absentia in the Netherlands to 24 years in prison for smuggling over seven tons of cocaine and ordering a murder. Authorities confirmed his presence in Sierra Leone after video evidence showed him attending a New Year’s church service alongside President Julius Maada Bio and his daughter. Reports suggest Leijdekkers may have married the president's daughter, potentially complicating extradition efforts. Sierra Leone, which lacks an extradition treaty with the Netherlands, has launched an investigation into the case. The Sierra Leone police have expressed willingness to cooperate with Interpol and Dutch authorities. There are also unverified claims that Leijdekkers may have acquired Sierra Leonean citizenship. The Dutch government has offered a €200,000 reward for information leading to his arrest. Leijdekkers' presence underscores Sierra Leone's role as a key transit point in the international cocaine trade.