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Netherlands discusses extradition request for cocaine kingpin Leijdekkers with Sierra Leone

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on March 6, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 25, 2026

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Netherlands discusses extradition request for cocaine kingpin Leijdekkers with Sierra Leone
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AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - Dutch Justice Minister David van Weel said on Thursday that he spoke over the phone with his Sierra Leone counterpart Alpha Sesay about the Dutch extradition request for European

Netherlands Engages Sierra Leone on Extradition of Cocaine Kingpin

AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - Dutch Justice Minister David van Weel said on Thursday that he spoke over the phone with his Sierra Leone counterpart Alpha Sesay about the Dutch extradition request for European cocaine kingpin Jos Leijdekkers.

"He is wanted internationally for serious crimes. And there are strong indications that he is currently in Sierra Leone", Van Weel added in a post on X.

One of Europe's most wanted fugitives, Leijdekkers, has found refuge and high-level protection in Sierra Leone, Reuters reported earlier this year.

Sierra Leone has previously said it is investigating the reports and would cooperate if there was an extradition request, even though the Netherlands does not have an extradition treaty with Sierra Leone.

(Reporting by Charlotte Van Campenhout and Stephanie van den Berg, Editing by Benoit Van Overstraeten and Toby Chopra)

Key Takeaways

  • Dutch minister discusses extradition with Sierra Leone.
  • Jos Leijdekkers is a wanted European cocaine kingpin.
  • Leijdekkers possibly in Sierra Leone with high-level protection.
  • No extradition treaty exists between Netherlands and Sierra Leone.
  • Sierra Leone open to cooperation on extradition request.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Leijdekkers?
Leijdekkers is one of Europe's most wanted fugitives, currently believed to be in Sierra Leone.
What did the Dutch Justice Minister discuss with Sierra Leone?
Dutch Justice Minister David van Weel spoke with his Sierra Leone counterpart about the extradition request for Leijdekkers.
Does the Netherlands have an extradition treaty with Sierra Leone?
No, the Netherlands does not have an extradition treaty with Sierra Leone, but cooperation is possible if a request is made.
What crimes is Leijdekkers wanted for?
Leijdekkers is wanted internationally for serious crimes, including drug trafficking.
What is Sierra Leone's stance on the extradition request?
Sierra Leone has stated it is investigating the reports and would cooperate if there is an extradition request.

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