Dutch officials are using diplomatic channels in West Africa to pressure Sierra Leone into handing over fugitive drug kingpin Jos Leijdekkers.
Known by the alias Bolle Jos, the Dutch national is currently considered the most wanted criminal in the country.
He has received combined prison sentences totaling 81 years across courts in the Netherlands and Belgium for cocaine smuggling, money laundering, and orchestrating violent crimes.
Building regional pressure
Justice and Security Minister David van Weel brought up the case during a diplomatic visit to nearby Ghana.
The minister is attempting to form a coalition of neighboring West African nations, including Liberia and Ghana, to increase regional pressure on Sierra Leone.
Dutch authorities have pointed out that the estimated financial revenue from the fugitive’s illicit network rivals the entire gross domestic product of Sierra Leone.
Officials fear this wealth provides significant influence in the country, complicating law enforcement efforts.
Complicated extradition attempts
Extradition attempts have hit major roadblocks, partly due to reports that Leijdekkers has personal ties to high-level political figures in Sierra Leone.
After a covert operation aimed at capturing him failed last year, the Dutch government shifted its strategy back toward diplomatic and economic channels.
Beyond regional diplomacy, the Netherlands has requested that the European Union consider withholding development aid destined for the country.
The EU has earmarked €325 million in support for Sierra Leone between 2021 and 2027.
Slight signs of movement
The minister of justice in Sierra Leone has recently requested a meeting with Dutch representatives.
While this marks a shift toward open communication, Dutch ministers note there is not yet a clear commitment to arrest or extradite the fugitive.
Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies across Europe continue to trace operations linked to his network, including a massive maritime cocaine interception off the Canary Islands.
