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International media are questioning the alleged presence of Dutch fugitive Jos Leijdekkers in Sierra Leone, following a BBC report that showed him attending a church service alongside President Bio, the First Lady, and their daughter.
The issue was highlighted in a BBC World Service programme, where journalists investigated allegations surrounding Leijdekkers, who is wanted by European authorities over alleged cocaine trafficking offences and is facing an extradition request from the Netherlands.
According to the BBC report, Leijdekkers has been identified by European law enforcement agencies as a major figure in international drug trafficking. The report stated that Spanish authorities linked him to a major cocaine seizure involving about 30 tonnes of cocaine intercepted in a maritime operation.
The BBC programme also examined claims from some residents and journalists who alleged that Leijdekkers had been seen in Freetown and was known among some communities. However, these claims remain allegations and have not been independently verified.
The report gained further attention after a video surfaced showing a man identified as Leijdekkers seated behind President Julius Maada Bio and First Lady Fatima Bio during a church service, sitting near Agnes Bio.
During an interview with BBC journalist Megan Mohan, First Lady Fatima Bio said she did not know who Jos Leijdekkers was and rejected claims linking him to her family, describing such claims as rumours.
Sierra Leone’s Justice Minister, responding to questions from the BBC, said that if the person of interest was confirmed to be in Sierra Leone, the appropriate action would be taken. He did not confirm whether Leijdekkers was currently in the country.
The BBC report also included comments from Sierra Leonean journalist Florence Lelema Carter, who said many citizens were seeking clarity from authorities regarding the allegations and wanted a transparent outcome.
