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A major drug trafficking trial has commenced in Belgium, where 22 suspects—including notorious Dutch gangster Jos Leijdekkers—are accused of orchestrating the importation of over 11 tonnes of cocaine from Sierra Leone into Belgium.
The case, currently before the Dendermonde Criminal Court (Termonde), stems from a massive drug seizure at the Port of Antwerp in October 2023. Authorities estimate the street value of the cocaine at approximately €550 million ($635 million).
According to investigators, the operation was uncovered following a confrontation between rival individuals at the port. The altercation—reportedly linked to an attempted theft of the shipment—alerted maritime police, prompting a detailed inspection of a suspicious container.
Customs officials subsequently discovered 8,464 blocks of cocaine, weighing around 11.2 tonnes. Law enforcement also foiled a follow-up robbery attempt connected to the consignment.
Further investigations led to the identification and arrest of 22 individuals allegedly involved in the trafficking network. Prosecutors argue that the group played various roles in coordinating the shipment, transportation, and attempted distribution of the drugs across Europe.
The trial is expected to shed more light on the international drug routes linking West Africa to Europe, as well as the alleged involvement of high-profile criminal figures like “Bolle Jos.”
