Sierra Rutile Limited (SRL) has issued a firm rebuttal against recent false and defamatory claims circulating on social media concerning the acquisition of its parent company, Sierra Rutile Holdings Limited (SRX), by Leonoil Company Limited (Leonoil).

The company has categorically denied any connection between Leonoil and an individual named Jos Leijdekkers, also known as ‘Bello Jos.’

In an official statement released today, SRL emphasized that Leonoil, a fully Sierra Leonean-owned petroleum trading company, has never had any direct or indirect ties to Jos Leijdekkers. Furthermore, neither SRX nor SRL has ever engaged with Leijdekkers in any capacity.

The acquisition of SRX by Leonoil, which took place in September 2024, was conducted in full compliance with Australian securities and anti-money laundering (AML) laws. The transaction underwent thorough scrutiny by Australian regulatory bodies, including the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC). Both agencies confirmed that all financial processes adhered to legal standards and AML regulations.

SRL has labeled the allegations as “entirely false, defamatory, and without merit,” warning that it will pursue legal action against individuals or entities responsible for spreading the misinformation.

The company has urged the public to disregard the claims and to rely solely on official SRL communications for accurate information.