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Opposition Leader in Parliament Abdul Kargbo has called on the Sierra Leone government to take diplomatic and legal action as the European Parliament prepares to consider measures linked to convicted Dutch drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers.
Kargbo raised the concern in a Facebook post ahead of the European Parliament’s expected vote Thursday, Sept. 17, on proposals concerning countries accused of failing to cooperate in efforts against organised crime and wanted drug traffickers.
Recent reports indicate that measures under discussion could include visa restrictions and possible reductions or other changes to development assistance, although the scope and outcome of any measures directed at Sierra Leone remain subject to the parliamentary process.
Leijdekkers, also known as “Bolle Jos,” was convicted in absentia in the Netherlands and Belgium and remains wanted by European authorities. A European Parliament research paper published in 2026 identified him as a convicted drug trafficker who has been linked to Sierra Leone.
Dutch authorities have previously confirmed that Leijdekkers was believed to be in Sierra Leone. Sierra Leonean authorities have also said an extradition process was being pursued, according to research cited by the European Parliament.
Kargbo said the issue could have wider consequences for Sierra Leone and urged the government to address the allegations while protecting the interests of ordinary citizens.
“Today, the European Parliament is expected to vote on matters concerning convicted Dutch drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers, who is alleged to be hiding in Sierra Leone. Proposals under consideration reportedly include visa restrictions, reductions in development assistance, and possible legal measures involving Sierra Leone. This is a matter of serious national concern. The Government must take all necessary diplomatic and legal steps to address the allegations and ensure that innocent Sierra Leoneans do not suffer consequences arising from official inaction.”
The opposition leader’s warning follows months of international scrutiny over Leijdekkers’ reported presence in Sierra Leone and allegations concerning the country’s role in international cocaine trafficking. The European Parliament’s own research has referenced those concerns while also documenting the wider impact of organised crime networks operating across borders.
In June, Kargbo similarly warned that Sierra Leone could face international consequences over concerns surrounding drug trafficking and Leijdekkers’ reported presence in the country.
The European Parliament vote is expected to provide a clearer indication of the measures lawmakers may seek from EU institutions in response to concerns over international organised crime and cooperation with countries where wanted criminals are believed to be located.