Accra:The Netherlands is requesting Ghana's help in dismantling the drug network of the fugitive Dutch trafficker Jos Leijdekkers, also known as Bolle Jos, who is suspected to be hiding in Sierra Leone.
According to Ghana Web, the Dutch Minister of Justice and Security, David van Weel, is advocating for the involvement of Ghanaian authorities in this effort. The goal is to sever the supply lines linked to Leijdekkers' network, potentially involving the deployment of Dutch police officers to Ghana.
Leijdekkers has received sentences totaling more than 80 years in prison in the Netherlands and Belgium for drug trafficking and related offenses. Reports suggest he has connections with influential figures in Sierra Leone, including the president's family.
This renewed focus follows a significant cocaine seizure by French customs officers at the Port of Dunkirk in September 2026. The cocaine, nearly 3.9 tonnes, was hidden in a container of recycled plastic waste from Ghana and valued at approximately US$260 million on the street.
Subsequently, four Ghanaians have been brought before the High Court in Accra in relation to the seizure. Among them is Desmond Koranteng Curiel, noted as a suspected operative for Leijdekkers' network in Ghana. They have all pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiracy to export and exportation of narcotic drugs.
Ghana's Narcotics Control Commission has asserted that the country will not be a safe haven or transit point for international drug trafficking organizations.
Despite ongoing efforts, the Netherlands has been unable to secure Leijdekkers' extradition from Sierra Leone. The European Commission has responded by suspending £18 million in budget support to Sierra Leone, with potential additional suspensions of £22.5 million in 2027 if he is not extradited.
The Dutch government is also seeking to implement further European measures to freeze Leijdekkers' assets and restrict his movements, while engaging other African countries to intensify regional pressure and disrupt his support networks.