Freetown, March 5, 2025 – Sierra Leone’s Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, has provided updates on the country’s ongoing investigation of Dutch Drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers in Sierra Leone.
Speaking at the Ministry’s weekly press conference on Tuesday, March 4, Minister Bah outlined the government’s proactive approach across key sectors such as security, public health, environmental sustainability, and global advocacy.
He confirmed that the Dutch government had formally engaged with Sierra Leone, with both countries now working in close collaboration to combat transnational crimes.
Minister Bah revealed that a dossier containing crucial details regarding the case of Jos Leijdekkers, a notorious Dutch crime boss and one of Europe’s most wanted men, has been received and is currently under review by the Attorney General.
Leijdekkers, also known as “Bolle Jos,” has been reportedly hiding out in Sierra Leone since early 2023. He was sentenced in absentia to 24 years for drug trafficking, armed robbery, and ordered murder in the Netherlands, and an additional 10 years in Belgium. Dutch prosecutors are working with Sierra Leonean authorities to facilitate his capture, offering a €200,000 reward for his arrest.
Regarding the Guinea cocaine smuggling incident, Minister Bah disclosed that former Sierra Leonean Ambassador to Guinea, Alimamy Bangura, is back in the country assisting with investigations. This follows the discovery of seven suitcases containing suspected cocaine in an embassy vehicle in Guinea, leading to the ambassador’s recall for further inquiries.
Minister Bah reassured the public of President Julius Maada Bio’s unwavering commitment to preventing Sierra Leone from becoming a hub for transnational crimes. He highlighted the continued efforts of law enforcement in seizing contraband and arresting perpetrators, emphasizing the government’s proactive measures across multiple sectors, including global advocacy, security, environmental sustainability, and public health.
The collaboration between Sierra Leone and the Netherlands marks a significant step in the global fight against drug trafficking, reflecting a shared dedication to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens.
