The Dutch government has formally requested the extradition of convicted cocaine smuggler Jos Leijdekkers from Sierra Leone.
Dutch Justice Minister David van Weel confirmed the news on Thursday, stating that he had spoken with his Sierra Leone counterpart, Alpha Sesay, about the extradition request.
Leijdekkers, one of Europe’s most wanted fugitives, has found refuge and high-level protection in Sierra Leone.
The country has been investigating reports of Leijdekkers’ presence and has pledged to cooperate with the extradition request, despite the lack of an extradition treaty between the Netherlands and Sierra Leone.
The extradition request marks a significant development in the international pursuit of Leijdekkers, who has been convicted in absentia in the Netherlands.
The Dutch government hopes for swift action from Sierra Leonean authorities, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in combating organized crime.
