By Kandeh Sesay & Mohamed Fofanah
Startling revelations have emerged exposing an alleged high-level cover-up protecting one of Europe’s most wanted criminals, Dutch drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers, alias “Chubby Jos,” who is reportedly living freely under tight security in Sierra Leone.
Despite repeated official denials and a sluggish response to extradition requests from the Netherlands, credible intelligence gathered through an ongoing investigation suggests that Leijdekkers is being harbored in a heavily guarded residence in Kent Village—a luxury compound originally owned by the late businessman Moseray Fadika.
What’s more disturbing is the level of state resources allegedly committed to shielding him from law enforcement. Sources confirm that two private jets linked to Leijdekkers are parked at the Military Air Wing of Hastings Airfield, under armed protection by both police and military personnel. According to airfield insiders, the jets’ fuel tanks have been upgraded for international travel, triggering fears that the fugitive is planning an escape if pressure intensifies.
Multiple sightings describe Leijdekkers arriving at the airfield in a white SUV escorted by members of the Presidential Guard, with the Air Wing Commander personally overseeing the visits. Eyewitnesses allege that financial “tokens” are routinely distributed to on-duty security forces during these operations. Additionally, drone surveillance is reportedly deployed to monitor the area during his movements.
These claims starkly contradict official government statements denying any knowledge of Leijdekkers’ presence in the country. Even more damning are accounts placing the fugitive at elite social events, including a church service in Tihun where he was seen seated near President Julius Maada Bio. The alleged relationship between Leijdekkers and Agnes Bio, the President’s daughter, further suggests entrenched ties within Sierra Leone’s power circles.
Leijdekkers was convicted in absentia by a Dutch court and sentenced to 24 years in prison for trafficking over 7 tonnes of cocaine into Europe, yet he has allegedly been living undisturbed in Sierra Leone for more than two years.
Efforts by the Dutch Government to secure his extradition have so far been obstructed by bureaucratic deadlock, the lack of a formal extradition treaty, and rumors that Leijdekkers may have illegally obtained Sierra Leonean citizenship.
The involvement of Interpol and other international law enforcement agencies has intensified, as global scrutiny grows over what many are calling a national disgrace. Analysts warn that Sierra Leone’s credibility in international diplomacy and law enforcement cooperation is now hanging in the balance.
This newspaper made several attempts to reach officials at the Military Air Wing, but no response was received at the time of publication. We will publish any statement or clarification they provide when available.
As public outrage builds and the world watches, urgent questions remain: Who is protecting Chubby Jos—and why?
