Dutch authorities are offering a record €2m reward for information that leads to the arrest of Jos Leijdekkers, one of Europe’s most-wanted fugitives. The 35-year-old, also known as “Bolle Jos” or “Chubby Jos”, has been described by Dutch police as a key figure in international cocaine trafficking.
Justice Minister David van Weel said the ten-fold increase was necessary because of the threat Leijdekkers allegedly poses to national security, the rule of law and the international legal order. Dutch prosecutors said capturing him was their highest priority and promised that information provided would remain confidential.
Europol lists Leijdekkers among its most-wanted fugitives. Dutch police said in January 2025 that they believed he was living in Sierra Leone under the name Omar Sherrif. Images apparently showing him with President Julius Maada Bio and other officials have previously emerged.
Dutch prosecutors have sought his extradition, but Sierra Leone has refused to cooperate. The dispute has contributed to the European Union’s decision to cut some aid to the country.
A Rotterdam court sentenced Leijdekkers in absentia to 24 years in prison in 2024 after finding him guilty of smuggling more than seven metric tonnes of cocaine. He has also received a 79-year prison sentence in Belgium.
Dutch authorities estimate that he earned tens of millions of euros through cocaine smuggling. They also accuse him of money laundering and involvement in extreme violence, while several other investigations in the Netherlands remain open.
Sources: BBC News World.