The Dutch government has formally requested the extradition of convicted drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers from Sierra Leone, marking a significant development in international efforts to combat organized crime.

The extradition request was officially handed over to Sierra Leonean authorities today, according to Dutch Minister of Justice and Security, David van Weel.

Minister van Weel expressed his hope for swift action by Sierra Leone, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in the fight against organized crime. “Today the Dutch extradition request for convicted drug criminal Jos Leijdekkers was handed over to the authorities of Sierra Leone. I hope for swift action from the authorities of Sierra Leone and to find them on our side in this fight against international organized crime,” he stated.

Jos Leijdekkers, 33, a key figure in the international drug trade, was sentenced to 24 years in prison in absentia by a Rotterdam court last June. He was convicted of smuggling over seven tonnes of cocaine into Europe. Leijdekkers reportedly fled to Sierra Leone in January, where he has allegedly been residing for the past six months, sparking international concern.

Reports have also emerged suggesting a connection between Leijdekkers and President Julius Maada Bio’s family. It is alleged that Leijdekkers may have had a relationship with the president’s daughter, raising questions about the potential involvement of the Bio family in harboring the convicted drug trafficker. These claims have prompted further scrutiny of President Bio’s awareness of Leijdekkers’ presence in Sierra Leone.

As the legal process unfolds, the Dutch government and international law enforcement agencies will be closely monitoring Sierra Leone’s response to the extradition request.