Freetown, Sierra Leone – February 2, 2025 – Sierra Rutile Limited (SRL) has strongly denied allegations made by Mohamed Kamarainba Mansaray that its parent company’s acquisition was linked to Dutch drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers, also known as “Bolle Jos.”
In an official statement, SRL described the claims as “false, defamatory, and without merit.”
The company insisted that Leonoil, the Sierra Leonean-owned petroleum trading company that acquired Sierra Rutile Holdings Limited (SRX) in September 2024, has “never had, and does not have, any connection, direct or indirect, with Jos Leijdekkers.”
The company emphasized that the acquisition was conducted in full compliance with Australian financial regulations.
“The transaction underwent rigorous scrutiny by Australian regulatory authorities, including the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC),” the statement read.
SRL warned that it “will not hesitate to take legal action against any individuals or entities responsible for disseminating these baseless allegations.”
The controversy arose after Mansaray, a former presidential candidate of the Alliance Democratic Party (ADP), claimed that Leijdekkers had invested substantial funds in the acquisition of SRX through Leonoil as part of a money laundering scheme.
Mansaray also alleged that Leijdekkers had been residing in Sierra Leone, with reported sightings placing him at a church service in January 2025 near President Julius Maada Bio.
The Sierra Leonean government has since announced an investigation into these claims. In a statement, the Ministry of Information assured the public of its commitment to transparency and pledged to collaborate with Dutch authorities, Interpol, and other international agencies.
Meanwhile, concerns over potential links between international drug trafficking and local businesses have sparked public debate. Critics argue that the allegations, if proven, could undermine investor confidence and the credibility of Sierra Leone’s financial institutions.
As the investigation unfolds, SRL is urging the public to “rely only on official communications” for accurate information, dismissing the accusations as a deliberate attempt to damage its reputation.