Sierra Leone faces scrutiny over alleged cocaine trafficking hub

Sierra Leone is facing international scrutiny following allegations that it has become a transit hub for West African cocaine trafficking networks. Central to the controversy is Jos Leijdekkers, a highly wanted Dutch drug trafficker known as ‘Bolle Jos’, who is accused of operating a multinational network linking Latin America, Europe, and the Middle East.

Investigations suggest Leijdekkers arrived in Sierra Leone in late 2022 using a false identity. He reportedly established a high-profile presence in Freetown, interacting with government officials and appearing at social venues. His presence was further highlighted when he was reportedly seen in close proximity to President Julius Maada Bio during a religious service in early 2025.

The situation has prompted calls from European officials for increased pressure on Sierra Leone to address the presence of international fugitives. While Sierra Leonean officials, including Chief Minister David Sengeh, have stated that security intelligence does not know Leijdekkers' current location, the inability to confirm his whereabouts has raised concerns regarding the country’s international reputation and the potential for state institutions to be influenced by trafficking networks.