The Leader of the Opposition in Parliament of the All People’s Congress (APC), Hon. Abdul Kargbo, has publicly asserted and affirmed that the drug fugitive Jos Leijdkkers has been deliberately shielded because he is allegedly married to one of the President’s daughters.
Speaking in an interview with the BBC, Hon. Kargbo questioned the Government’s commitment to fighting organized crime and upholding the rule of law, arguing that Sierra Leone’s international reputation is being damaged by what he described as official inaction.
“We have evidence that he is married to one of the President’s daughters. Since the Dutch Government requested his extradition, there has never been an attempt by this Government to pursue him or even release him to the Dutch authorities,” Kargbo alleged during the interview.
The opposition leader said the Government’s alleged failure to respond to the Dutch request raises serious questions about whether political connections are obstructing justice. He argued that no individual should be beyond the reach of the law, irrespective of family or political ties.
Kargbo further warned that the controversy risks deepening concerns among Sierra Leone’s international partners at a time when global law enforcement agencies are intensifying efforts against transnational drug trafficking. He noted that international reports have increasingly identified West Africa as a major transit corridor for cocaine destined for European markets.
According to him, the Bio administration must demonstrate transparency by cooperating fully with international law enforcement agencies and ensuring that any extradition request is handled strictly in accordance with the law.
He maintained that continued silence or perceived inaction could further erode public confidence in state institutions and tarnish Sierra Leone’s international credibility in the fight against organized crime.
The allegations come amid growing international scrutiny over suspected drug trafficking activities in Sierra Leone and have intensified calls from sections of the opposition and civil society for greater transparency from the Government regarding the status of Leijdekkers and any outstanding extradition request.
The Government of Sierra Leone has consistently maintained that it is committed to combating drug trafficking and other forms of transnational organized crime. Officials have previously rejected allegations that state institutions are protecting individuals wanted by foreign authorities, insisting that Sierra Leone operates under the rule of law and respects its legal obligations.
Hon. Kargbo’s allegations have not been independently verified, and no court in Sierra Leone has established the truth of the claims regarding the suspect’s alleged relationship with the President’s family. Any extradition proceedings would be subject to Sierra Leonean law and applicable international agreements.
Nevertheless, the interview has added fresh political pressure on the Bio administration, with observers expecting renewed demands for the Government to publicly clarify the status of the alleged fugitive and respond to the concerns raised by the Opposition.