Sierra Leone’s Inspector General of Police (IGP), William Fayia Sellu, has responded to growing international allegations that Dutch cocaine trafficker Jos Leijdekkers is residing in the country.
Speaking at a government press conference on Tuesday, Sellu assured the public that there is no active international alert on the suspect and that local authorities are conducting their own investigation.
Sellu emphasized that Sierra Leone, as a member of Interpol, has full access to the I-24/7 platform, which provides intelligence on globally wanted individuals.
He confirmed that in the past four years, no red alert has been issued for Leijdekkers. However, due to the circulation of unverified claims on social media, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) have launched an inquiry to determine whether the fugitive is present in the country.
His remarks follow a statement by Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, who revealed that the government has not received any formal or informal request from the Dutch authorities or any other country regarding Leijdekkers.
In response to the allegations, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has ordered a thorough investigation to establish the suspect’s identity and any possible illegal activities within Sierra Leone’s borders.
Minister Bah also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to cooperating with international law enforcement agencies, including Interpol and Dutch authorities, to ensure transparency in the investigation.
Meanwhile, IGP Sellu reiterated the police force’s strong stance against drug-related crimes and assured that Sierra Leone will not serve as a haven for international criminals.
The allegations against Leijdekkers surfaced amid increasing concerns over transnational drug trafficking networks in West Africa. Sierra Leonean authorities have pledged to strengthen border security and intelligence-sharing efforts to prevent the country from becoming a hub for illicit activities.
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