By Dauda Samura
June 3 (– The Dutch government is considering moves to block European Union development aid to Sierra Leone over difficulties in securing the arrest and extradition of fugitive drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers, Dutch media NOS reported, citing Justice Minister David van Weel.
The proposal would seek to suspend EU assistance to the West African country as part of efforts to increase pressure on its authorities to cooperate in the case, the report said.
If implemented, Sierra Leone could risk losing access to EU support estimated at 352 million euros ($380 million) in subsidies for the 2021–2027 period, as well as funding from regional and international EU programmes.
The move reflects mounting frustration in the Netherlands over the continued evasion of Leijdekkers, also known as “Bolle Jos”, one of Europe’s most wanted fugitives.
Leijdekkers has been convicted in absentia in the Netherlands and Belgium for large-scale cocaine trafficking and other organised crime offences, and faces lengthy prison sentences.
Dutch authorities believe he is residing in Sierra Leone, allegations that have been denied by Sierra Leonean officials. The government has repeatedly said it has no knowledge of his whereabouts.
International media reports have also alleged links between Leijdekkers and individuals close to Sierra Leone’s political leadership, claims that authorities in Freetown have rejected.
It was not immediately clear whether the Dutch proposal has been formally presented to EU institutions or how other member states would respond.
The European Union is a major development partner for Sierra Leone, funding projects in infrastructure, governance, health and education. The current funding cycle under the EU’s multiannual financial framework runs from 2021 to 2027.
Any attempt by a single EU member state to halt bloc-wide development assistance would likely require broader agreement among member countries and EU institutions.
The case of Leijdekkers has become a focal point in international efforts to combat cocaine trafficking networks operating between Latin America, West Africa and Europe, with increasing pressure on countries suspected of harbouring fugitives linked to organised crime.
