Europe’s Most Wanted Cocaine Trafficker Accused of Building Drug Empire in Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone is facing allegations of extensive criminal infiltration after European intelligence agencies linked Dutch fugitive Jos Leijdekkers to major cocaine shipments, political connections and deadly violence.
A Guardian investigation alleges that Leijdekkers, 35, established a powerful trafficking network in the West African country, exploiting alleged links with influential officials and security personnel.
The investigation gained attention after Spanish authorities seized the cargo ship Arconian in May, discovering between 30 and 45 tonnes of cocaine, Europe’s largest recorded seizure.
According to the report, Leijdekkers is married to Agnes Bio, daughter of Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio, raising questions about the fugitive’s alleged access to powerful circles.
Intelligence sources cited by the investigation allege that Leijdekkers’ network has been connected to multiple killings, disappearances and intimidation involving people suspected of obstructing its operations.
Among the reported victims was shopkeeper Alan Jalloh, who disappeared with two others in Freetown in October 2025. Investigators believe the abductions were linked to trafficking disputes.
The report also alleges that some police investigations were obstructed, suspects were released following intervention, and military personnel interfered with operations targeting suspected cocaine traffickers.
Sierra Leonean authorities and individuals named in the investigation have disputed some allegations, while Leijdekkers’ lawyer reportedly dismissed the accusations as politically motivated and unreliable.
The investigation further identifies suspected trafficking connections across Liberia, Guinea-Bissau and Ghana, raising concerns that criminal networks could expand their influence beyond Sierra Leone’s borders.
Despite warnings about alleged trafficking activities, the European Union continued providing substantial assistance to Sierra Leone, including development funding and maritime security equipment during recent years.
Dutch authorities have sought Leijdekkers’ extradition after he received a prison sentence exceeding 100 years in absentia for offences including attempted murder, according to the report.
The investigation also describes an alleged armed attack in the Netherlands involving members of Leijdekkers’ network, highlighting concerns about violence associated with international cocaine trafficking operations.
Authorities across Europe and West Africa now face growing pressure to investigate suspected criminal networks, strengthen institutional accountability and prevent drug trafficking from undermining regional security.
Leave a comment