Netherland's Most Wanted Cocaine Kingpin Hiding in Sierra Leone
NAIROBI/THE HAGUE, Jan 24 - One of Europe's most wanted fugitives, convicted cocaine smuggler Jos Leijdekkers, has found refuge and high-level protection in Sierra Leone, according to three sources with direct knowledge of the matter as well as photos and video footage seen by Reuters. The images and accounts shed fresh light on the role of the West African nation, which international law enforcement officials say is a transshipment point for large volumes of Latin American cocaine headed to Europe. Leijdekkers, also known as ‘Bolle Jos’, is on Europol's list of most wanted fugitives.
Sources: ReutersUPDATED: 7 March 2025: Chief Immigration Officer Alusine Kanneh was sacked and replaced. Expand the article to read the updated information.
Jos Leijdekker
Convicted cocaine smuggler
“Chief Immigration Officer Alusine Kanneh was sacked and replaced. Kanneh is under scrutiny after being identified in a video alongside Jos Leijdekkers, the convicted Dutch drug lord believed to be operating a Narco Hub and Distribution Center in Sierra Leone. The appointment effectively terminates his services.”
The video footage captures a scuffle involving Jos Leijdekkers, also known as 'Bolle Jos,' at Freetown's Scarlet Nightclub in early 2023, alongside a businessman. Kanneh is also visible in the video.
LATEST: Sierra Leone Cocaine Saga: Umaru Fofanah ~ BBC News
“KEY UPDATE: Dutch Prosecution Office”
Jos Leijdekkers, aka Bolle Jos (chunky Jos)
The International Dragnet —WANTED
Dutch public prosecution office has confirmed that the Netherlands’ most wanted drugs criminal Jos Leijdekkers, aka Bolle Jos (chunky Jos), is hiding out in Sierra Leone following reports by investigative platform Follow the Money and the AD.
Leijdekkers (33), who is both on the national and the international Europol most wanted list, was sentenced to 24 years in jail in 2024 for organizing six drug transports comprising some 7,000 kilos of cocaine and for commissioning a murder.
He is also thought to be involved in the disappearance and murder of drug crime linchpin Naima Jilal, whose dead and tortured body was found on a phone impounded during the Marengo investigation.
Who is Jos Leijdekkers (Bolle Jos)
Meet Europe's most wanted drug kingpin and fugitive, Jos Leijdekkers, also known as 'Bolle Jos' (Chunky Jos).
During a recent press conference, Information Minister Chernor Bah indirectly acknowledged the presence of an individual known by the alias Umar Sheriff in Sierra Leone. This individual Jos Leijdekkers, a notorious drug kingpin and fugitive from Europe is also referred to as 'Bello Jos' or 'Chunky Jos' and is believed to have several other aliases. Private Investigative reports indicate that he first entered Turkiye on July 4, 2020, using a German passport under the alias 'Daniel Ernst.'
Multiple investigative agencies suspect that the wanted individual, Joseph Johannes Leijdekkers, possesses a German passport and a Turkiye ID under the name Daniel Ernst. The investigation has revealed that he has been in Sierra Leone since 2022.
The dragnet is tightening. Investigators are uncovering the various identities of Joseph Johannes Leijdekker, also known as 'Bolle Jos,' for a specific reason—the takedown.
REUTERS: Netherlands asks Sierra Leone to extradite cocaine kingpin
This is an ongoing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Exclusive: European cocaine kingpin has high-level protection in Sierra Leone-sources: Reuters
By David Lewis, Stephanie van den Berg and Reade Levinson | January 24, 20255:14 PM EST Updated 17 hours ago
Europol headquarters is pictured in The Hague, Netherlands, November 25, 2019. REUTERS/Piroschka van de Wouw/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights
NAIROBI/THE HAGUE, Jan 24 - One of Europe's most wanted fugitives, convicted cocaine smuggler Jos Leijdekkers, has found refuge and high-level protection in Sierra Leone, according to three sources with direct knowledge of the matter as well as photos and video footage seen by Reuters.
The images and accounts shed fresh light on the role of the West African nation, which international law enforcement officials say is a transshipment point for large volumes of Latin American cocaine headed to Europe.
Leijdekkers, who is Dutch, was sentenced in absentia to 24 years in prison on June 25 by a Rotterdam court for smuggling more than 7 tonnes of cocaine. Dutch police have said he was believed to be living in Turkey until recently.
A spokesperson for the Dutch prosecutor's office told Reuters on Friday in response to questions about his whereabouts that he has been living in Sierra Leone for at least six months. Two of the sources who were aware of the situation said Leijdekkers had been in Sierra Leone since at least early 2023.
photos of a church mass in Sierra Leone on Jan. 1, 2025 show Leijdekkers, 33, sitting two rows behind Sierra Leone's President Julius Maada Bio, next to a woman
"It is the highest priority of police and prosecutors to get him to the Netherlands to serve his sentence. We are doing everything we can in that regard," Dutch prosecutors' office spokesman Wim de Bruin said, declining further comment.
Reuters was not able to reach Leijdekkers. The Dutch judges who convicted him noted in their court ruling that he did not mandate an attorney to put forward a defense on his behalf in court. Guy Weski, the lawyer who last represented Leijdekkers in the Netherlands did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Videos and photos of a church mass in Sierra Leone on Jan. 1, 2025, show Leijdekkers, 33, sitting two rows behind Sierra Leone's President Julius Maada Bio, next to a woman.
Reuters identified Leijdekkers by using five different facial recognition tools to compare the man at the church, as seen in a video and images on Facebook and in another video on YouTube, with photos of Leijdekkers released by Europol in 2022. The tools all determined they were a match, ranging between 82 - 98% confidence.
The three sources said the woman was Bio's daughter Agnes and that Leijdekkers was married to her. Reuters could not confirm the relationship. Agnes Bio did not immediately respond to requests for comment sent to her email and her social media accounts. The mass was held at St Joseph's Catholic Church in the president's hometown of Tihun, in southern Sierra Leone.
The three sources said Leijdekkers has high-level protection in Sierra Leone, where they said he frequently spends time. The sources declined to be identified due to the sensitivity of the matter. Sierra Leone's Information Minister and Government Spokesperson Chernor Bah did not immediately respond to requests for comment sent to him via WhatsApp.
MOST WANTED
Leijdekkers is on Europol's list of most wanted fugitives. [click the most wanted to view Europol’s most wanted fugitive.]
In a Sept. 4 update on the wanted notice for him, Dutch police said he was "one of the key players in international cocaine trafficking." They said the 7,000 kg of confiscated cocaine shipments that were behind his 2024 conviction were likely a fraction of his business.
Citing intercepted communications, Dutch police said that Leijdekkers "has probably been laundering tens of millions of euros and hundreds of kilos of gold that may have been earned from the cocaine trade". Reuters has no independent evidence to confirm that.
Over the last two decades, West Africa has become a major transit point for large volumes of cocaine being smuggled from Latin America to Europe, recording a number of large seizures of the drug.
Last year, members of a UK-based crime group were imprisoned for trying to smuggle 1.3 tonnes of cocaine, worth 140 million pounds, into the UK from Sierra Leone. Reuters could not establish if Leijdekkers was involved in the deal.
Dutch prosecutors have offered a 200,000-euro ($210,000) reward for tips that lead to the arrest of Leijdekkers, the highest ever for any Dutch fugitive.
($1 = 0.9513 euros)
The Reuters Daily Briefing newsletter provides all the news you need to start your day. Sign up here.Reporting by David Lewis in Nairobi, Stephanie van der Berg in The Hague, Reade Levinson and Filipp Lebedev in London, editing by Silvia Aloisi and Philippa FletcherOur Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.Feel free to post your comments in the ‘Post Comment’ section.“Words of caution: Those traveling to/from Sierra Leone at any time. It’s a zoo out there. Be careful. Stay alert.”
“Bio’s administration through the Ministry of Information issued a statement regarding the Dutch cocaine kingpin, Jos Leijdekkers, also known as ‘Bolle Jos,’ who is in hiding in Sierra Leone.”
FREETOWN: Sunday, January 26, 2025 — Sierra Leone's Ministry of Information announced on Sunday that it is investigating media reports suggesting that European cocaine kingpin Jos Leijdekkers is present in the country and receiving high-level protection. The ministry also stated that the government has not received any formal communication regarding Leijdekkers from any state or institution. He further stated that they are committed to ensuring the country does not become a sanctuary for organized crime.
“Europol identifies Dutch Drug Kingpin Jos Leijdekkers, also known as ‘Bolle Jos’, with many aliases.”
Leijdekkers in Europol's list of most wanted fugitives [click the most wanted to view Europol’s most wanted fugitive.]
THE INVESTIGATION: A coalition of international crime agencies, including the Dutch Police, Europol, Interpol, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), is leading the investigation and uncovering the truth at every turn.
The crime agencies have expanded their dragnet to include officials and associates involved in the cover-up of the Bolle Jos case and Mr. Alimamy Bangura, the ambassador to Guinea implicated in diplomatic missions' cocaine trafficking.
Tag: #USEmbassyFreetown
ICE Chicago Removes Sierra Leonean Convicted of Visa Fraud
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed the removal of Prince Solomon Knox, a 62-year-old Sierra Leonean national, which took place on March 1st. Knox was arrested by ICE in St. Louis, Missouri, on February 4th, following previous convictions for visa fraud and domestic assault. He had also lied in his U.S. visa residency application about his past affiliations with the Revolutionary United Front (RUF). Knox has been deported back to Freetown, Sierra Leone.
March 5, 2025 | St. Louis, MO | Enforcement and Removal | US Immigration and Customs EnforcementU.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed the removal of Prince Solomon Knox, a 62-year-old Sierra Leonean national, which took place on March 1st. Knox was arrested by ICE in St. Louis, Missouri, on February 4th, following previous convictions for visa fraud and domestic assault. He had also lied in his U.S. visa residency application about his past affiliations with the Revolutionary United Front (RUF). Knox has been deported back to Freetown, Sierra Leone.
March 5, 2025 * St. Louis, MO * Enforcement and Removal
ICE Chicago removes Sierra Leonean convicted of visa fraud
The man was associated with Revolutionary United Front in Western Africa
ST. LOUIS – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement completed the removal of Prince Solomon Knox, 62, a Sierra Leonean national, to his home country March 1. Knox was arrested by ICE in St. Louis Feb. 4; he has previous convictions for visa fraud and domestic assault after lying about his prior affiliation with armed terrorist groups.
Enforcement and Removal
ICE Chicago removes Sierra Leonean convicted of visa fraud
Knox entered the U.S. at Chicago O’Hare International Airport April 14, 2004, and came to the attention of ICE in 2006 through an investigation involving allegations of fraud by ineligible combatants or imposter refugees to participate in the refugee resettlement program. The investigation revealed witnesses who provided testimony about involvement with multiple combatant groups in Western Africa, including the Revolutionary United Front, a group that made extensive use of child soldiers while committing acts such as amputating the hands, arms, and legs of tens of thousands of Sierra Leoneans using machetes.
“Foreign nationals, from any country, cannot be allowed to abuse the visa system and migrate to the U.S. fraudulently,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Chicago Field Office Director Sam Olson. “This is an example of someone not only attempting to escape responsibility in their home country but also depriving those in the global community of the opportunity to seek desperately needed relief.”
The investigation resulted in a federal grand jury indicting Knox on two counts of visa fraud and two counts of false statements, and ICE arrested him Dec. 21, 2006. Knox was convicted June 20, 2007, by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois and sentenced to twelve months incarceration.
An immigration judge ordered Knox removed June 6, 2008, while in custody, and he was later placed under an order of supervision pending removal.
Updated: 03/05/2025
RELATED PUBLIC RECORDS
Case Details: Full title: PRINCE SOLOMON KNOX, A# xxx-xx1-508, Petitioner, v. DAMON ACUFF | Court: UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF ILLINOIS | Date published: Oct 5, 2020
Decision Date 02 September 2008 | Docket Number No. 07-2552.,07-2552 | Citation 540 F.3d 708 | Parties UNITED STATES of America, Plaintiff-Appellee, v. Prince S. KNOX, Defendant-Appellant | Court U.S. Court of Appeals — Seventh Circuit
In the words of President Bio: "Because of Democratic Principles..."
18 February 2025: In his remarks to a group of Sierra Leoneans, President Bio stated, "Because of democratic principles, the time wae ar get, ar nor go able change this country." A cross-section of Sierra Leoneans analyzing his comments has a range of differing opinions and perspectives.
Theo Edwards for YAME DigitalBecause of Democratic Principles… ~ President Bio
“In his remarks to a group of Sierra Leoneans, President Bio stated, “Because of democratic principles, the time wae ar get, ar nor go able change this country.”
This is a pivotal moment in history—the president of Sierra Leone is officially waving the white flag in surrender.
People who shut their eyes to reality simply invite their own destruction’ ~ James A. Baldwin.
Some analysts have observed that the President has acknowledged his failures in Sierra Leone, similar to many former presidents before him.
Corruption, Violence, and Division! How Sierra Leoneans Treat Their 'Mama'! Sierra Leone needs a clean start, a fresh beginning. Otherwise, the worst abuses during the past 63+ years would most certainly reappear in more vicious forms!
A shocking confession that he cannot change the country's course has left Sierra Leoneans stunned, as they view it as a public admission of his failure to lead the nation.
To truly grasp the meaning behind his words, it's essential to delve into the definitions of democratic principles. Understanding these core concepts will illuminate their significance and relevance to our society.
What are the definitions of democratic principles?
Democratic principles represent the bedrock of a just and equitable society. They are essential for guaranteeing fair and free elections, allowing every citizen to participate in shaping their government. These principles safeguard fundamental human rights, including the freedoms of assembly, association, personal property, religion, and speech. They uphold the essential tenets of citizenship and the consent of the governed, ensuring that voting rights are protected and that individuals are shielded from unjust governmental actions that threaten their life and liberty. Embracing these principles is vital for fostering a democracy where everyone’s voice matters and human dignity is respected.
So, is President Bio hinting at a different perspective? Take a listen to some analysis.
The country has experienced considerable economic challenges, emphasizing a crucial need for change and improvement.
President Maada Bio's admission revealed his inability to implement the transformative changes our country needs, instead promising to motivate future leaders to undertake this crucial task.
…but “will inspire so many people, and that inspiration will live on…” ~ President Bio.
Call things by their names.
How can someone truly and effectively inspire and motivate future generations while candidly expressing his own doubts about the path to change?
He who feels it knows it—the tiredness, the frustration. To my fellow countrymen, when we feel worn out and weary, remember that the Bible teaches that encouragement brings hope. The verse says, '... he makes everything beautiful in its time' (Ecclesiastes 3:11). So my words of encouragement do not give up. God is mindful of us all and our situation.
Theo Edwards for YAME Digital“Because of democratic principles, the time wae ar get, ar nor go able change this country.” What do you think President Bio is implying? His he simply asking for more time or what? What’s your take? Post your comments in the Post Comment section of the article.
Sierra Leone: A Narco State and Distribution Hub
Mr. Alimamy Bangura, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Guinea, has been declared ‘Persona non grata’ by the Guinean government for allegedly taking part in drug dealing. This comes despite the Ministry of Foreign Affairs denying the allegations and claiming that the diplomat was urgently summoned stateside to provide his account of the 7 suitcases of cocaine and thousands of US Dollars found in the official diplomatic vehicle belonging to the Sierra Leone Embassy in Guinea. West Africa is a major transit point for cocaine trafficked from Latin America to Europe.
Theo Edwards for YAME DigitalUPDATE: Expand and read the updated article for the latest information.
Mr. Alimamy Bangura, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Guinea, declared ‘Persona non grata’ by the Guinean government
“State House Press Release: 24 February 2025”
BREAKING NEWS: Thursday, February 6, 2025 | 5:14 PM EST.
The Guinean government intends to charge Mr. Alimamy Bangura, the Sierra Leone ambassador to Guinea, with operating drug trafficking activities and the disturbing potential involvement of diplomatic missions. His diplomatic immunity is being questioned.
Mr. Alimamy Bangura, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Guinea, has been declared ‘Persona non grata’ by the Guinean government for allegedly taking part in drug dealing. This comes despite the Ministry of Foreign Affairs denying the allegations and claiming that the diplomat was urgently summoned stateside to provide his account of the 7 suitcases of cocaine and thousands of US Dollars found in the official diplomatic vehicle belonging to the Sierra Leone Embassy in Guinea.
Watch the video: KUSH: Sierra Leone's new illegal drug. Contains upsetting scenes, drug use, and references to self-harm and suicide.West Africa is a major transit point for cocaine trafficked from Latin America to Europe.
It is not clear how much suspected cocaine was contained in the suitcases (file photo)
On January 13, 2025, Guinea's government alerted Sierra Leone's counterpart regarding the impounding of a diplomatic vehicle by Guinean authorities. The embassy utility vehicle, marked with diplomatic plates, was stopped in Conakry, the capital of Guinea, after driving from the Kambia border crossing raising suspicions with security officials. In the course of the search, authorities uncovered thousands of United States dollars and seven suitcases packed with cocaine, revealing a serious breach of diplomatic integrity.
Guinean authorities found a Laissez Passér travel permit signed and stamped by the Sierra Leone Embassy in Conakry authorizing the vehicle to cross the border of neighboring Guinea.
The Government of Sierra Leone confirms arrest of official vehicle with suspected Cocaine in Guinea.
The details provided by the Minister at a press briefing on Thursday indicated that the vehicle was intercepted on December 31st, with two occupants—the driver and a passenger.
Despite the ambassador's denial of involvement, his failure to stop the misuse of an embassy vehicle for drug trafficking casts serious doubts on his competence and ability to maintain proper oversight.
It also exposes a broader culture of impunity where those with wealth and connections remain untouchable, while the country’s institutions are weakened by corruption.
A significant threat to governance and security in the region: Credible sources linked to the diplomatic vehicle cocaine saga investigations in Conakry, Guinea, reveal troubling connections between high-ranking government officials and political associates in Freetown and international drug trafficking.
The traffickers and their accomplices must face the full force of the law.
An investigation is currently underway between the governments of Sierra Leone and Guinea to address the serious issue of drug trafficking operations and the troubling potential involvement of diplomatic missions. This effort underscores the commitment to tackle these criminal activities and ensure accountability.
Theo Edwards for YAME DigitalRELATED
“The Stench of Corruption”
If you follow corrupt leader's you become like them.
Corruption is a vile disease that sucks and drains the health out of something good. Corruption in society is an evil moral infection that keeps communities in a state of perpetual sickness. Corruption is a moral virus. It's so potent it leaves its hosts sick, lethargic, and unable to realize and accomplish all that a good person can. Where corruption thrives, poverty, not prosperity, prevails. Wealth is grabbed into the greedy, grubby hands of those who get fat on the toil and labor of good people.
Corruption benefits only temporarily those who participate in it. Everyone else is a victim of the theft, deceit, dishonesty, and lies that corruption feeds on. You need to know that a corrupt person is stealing from you. Corruption is filthy work and despicable acts of treachery done under the table and behind closed doors. It keeps a nation back from true development and progress. Wise investors steer clear of a corrupt environment; they would rather put their resources into a place where the playing field of opportunity is equal for all, not bent towards feeding the financial lust of corrupt members of society.
How many wonderful development projects have been lost because investors didn't want to do business in a swamp of evil? When those great projects go to another nation or place, we all lose. Believe me when I tell you that corruption steals from you. It steals from all of us. Corruption plunders the nation's wealth. People compromise on truth, equity, and fairness, choosing instead to feed off the short-term benefits of crookedness, exploitation, and financial perversion.
Corruption is not just a personal matter; it's a culture, a way of life not just for individuals but for companies, communities, governments, and nations. Corrupt nations hiding behind large companies will seek to invest in other weak nations to take over their assets. They will provide financial loans for much-needed infrastructure with assets they provide, signing contracts by lining the pockets of rotten government officials who participate in this kind of corruption.
Corruption is nothing less than theft and national robbery. A corrupt person steals from everyone in society. We all lose when corruption is rampant. Those who participate in corruption have chosen evil over good, lies over truth, and personal gain over the well-being of all. To be corrupt means to be rotten; when meat is corrupt, it’s rotten and it stinks, rotten meat can't be eaten.
When a person is corrupt, they're rotten and unfit for community membership. A corrupt person should be jailed to protect society from their vile deeds. The government should be protecting us from the foul results of corruption instead of being proponents and participants in it. When corruption becomes systemic, a culture and way of life, it destroys the health of both community and nation.
Now let me tell you something: defeating corruption is very difficult. The love of money is the root of all evil; those who love money will do almost anything to get it. Those who choose to stand up against corruption need to know they will be involved in a war, they will be threatened, vilified, intimidated, marginalized, and ridiculed. These individuals often feel alone as if they are the problem instead of the solution.
Corruption can only be defeated when enough people have had enough and decide to take action against it.
~If the shoe fits, then wear it!
Feel free to post your comments in the ‘Post Comments’ section.
Meaningful Change Does Not Always Require Financial Resources
Ishmeal Alfred Charles, the driving force behind the Sick Pikin Project, recently shared his vision in an exclusive interview with Awoko Newspaper. He expressed a strong desire to serve as an ambassador—not in the traditional political sense—but as a representative of Sierra Leone on the global stage, dedicated to humanitarian efforts, particularly in advocating for healthcare. As part of his broader vision, he urges the government to require mining companies to allocate a percentage of their royalties to emergency healthcare for children.
Courtesy: Ishmeal Alfred Charles
Ishmeal Alfred Charles
Founder of Sick Pikin Project
Ishmeal Alfred Charles, the driving force behind the Sick Pikin Project, recently shared his vision in an exclusive interview with Awoko Newspaper. He expressed a strong desire to serve as an ambassador—not in the traditional political sense—but as a representative of Sierra Leone on the global stage, dedicated to humanitarian efforts, particularly in advocating for healthcare.
As part of his broader vision, he calls on the government to mandate that mining companies allocate a percentage of their royalties to emergency healthcare for children—this would create a sustainable system to address urgent medical needs and strengthen Sierra Leone’s overall healthcare sector.
“If I were an ambassador to a country like India, I would focus on developing a modular hospital system in Sierra Leone. This initiative would greatly reduce the need for families to seek medical care abroad. My vision is to ensure that every Sierra Leonean has access to affordable, quality healthcare.”
He emphasized the African philosophy of Ubuntu, which means "I am because you are," as a guiding principle for national development. "We need to create a society where people help one another simply because it is the right thing to do."
He encourages Sierra Leoneans to embrace a culture of selflessness and collective progress. There is an urgent need for transformative leadership and a commitment to social responsibility in Sierra Leone, especially in support of our most vulnerable populations. It's important to understand that driving meaningful change does not always require large financial investments. Even simple acts of kindness, such as fetching water for an elderly neighbor, can have a profound impact.
Courtesy: ABOUT: Ishmeal Alfred Charles for Sick Pikin Project [click to visit website]
Sierra Leone Must Face Law Firm Jenner’s $8 Million Fee Lawsuit
Sierra Leone must face a lawsuit by U.S. law firm Jenner & Block seeking to recover more than $8 million in fees from the West African country for several years of legal work, a federal judge has ruled. U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan in Washington, D.C. on Thursday rejected Sierra Leone’s arguments for now that there was no valid contract between it and the firm and that the country was immune as a foreign sovereign. The case is Jenner & Block v. The Republic of Sierra Leone, U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, No. 1:22-cv-03599-TSC.
Sources: ReutersThe case is Jenner & Block v. The Republic of Sierra Leone, U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, No. 1:22-cv-03599-TSC.
Signage is seen outside of the law firm Jenner & Block LLP in Washington, D.C., U.S., August 30, 2020. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights
Jan 24 (Reuters) - Sierra Leone must face a lawsuit by U.S. law firm Jenner & Block seeking to recover more than $8 million in fees from the West African country for several years of legal work, a federal judge has ruled.
U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan in Washington, D.C. on Thursday rejected Sierra Leone’s arguments for now that there was no valid contract between it and the firm and that the country was immune as a foreign sovereign.
Chicago-based Jenner sued Sierra Leone in 2022 to recover allegedly unpaid fees, arguing that the firm "vigorously" represented the country in a dispute with an iron ore contractor whose claims exposed the country to $1.8 billion in potential damages.
A lawyer for Sierra Leone, Paul Thaler, said he was disappointed Chutkan allowed the lawsuit to move ahead.
“It will be incumbent on Jenner & Block to substantiate the allegations in its complaint as the case proceeds,” Thaler said. “We remain confident in our position and the strength of the Republic’s case.”
A representative for Jenner did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Sierra Leone retained Jenner in 2019 to pursue claims against concessionaire Gerald International Ltd for allegedly breaching a contract to remove and sell iron ore from mines. Gerald subsequently brought claims against Sierra Leone.
Jenner said its work "turned out to be far more complex and voluminous than either party initially contemplated."
Sierra Leone paid Jenner $3.6 million in legal fees between 2019 and late 2021, the lawsuit said, leaving a balance of $8.1 million.
In seeking dismissal of the lawsuit, Sierra Leone said Jenner had not shown it was owed any additional fees. The country disputed the validity of an alleged oral contract for some work Jenner said it performed.
Chutkan said in her ruling that Sierra Leone waived immunity by accepting the terms of Jenner’s engagement letter.
The case is Jenner & Block v. The Republic of Sierra Leone, U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, No. 1:22-cv-03599-TSC.
For plaintiff: Michael Brody and Maria del Carmen Gonzalez of Jenner & Block
For defendants: Paul Thaler, Jackson Nichols, and Casey McKinnon of Cohen Seglias Pallas Greenhall & Furman
By Mike Scarcella for Reuters | January 24, 20251:55 PM EST 
Sierra Leone GO-FOR-GOLD Permanent Residency Program
Sierra Leone has launched its GO-FOR-GOLD permanent residency program, a significant initiative aimed at attracting global investors. The program offers lifetime residency rights in exchange for gold investments. The residency is granted in exchange for a physical gold investment, ensuring investors play a part in Sierra Leone’s development. This innovative approach positions Sierra Leone as a leader in the investment migration industry.
Theo Edwards for YAME
A program built on Sierra Leone’s Natural strengths
How the Residency Program works
Sierra Leone has launched its GO-FOR-GOLD permanent residency program, a significant initiative aimed at attracting global investors. The program offers lifetime residency rights in exchange for gold investments. The residency is granted in exchange for a physical gold investment, ensuring investors play a part in Sierra Leone’s development. This innovative approach positions Sierra Leone as a leader in the investment migration industry.
The GO-FOR-GOLD program, developed with Stephen Barnes and the Hong Kong Visa Centre, requires investors to buy physical gold stored securely in government vaults for five years. It offers three customized packages:
Single Applicant: For $65,000 and one kilogram of gold, an individual can apply for residency.
Nuclear Family: This package costs $75,000 and includes one kilogram of gold for families.
Extended Family: The most comprehensive package costs $100,000, with two kilograms of gold.
All gold utilized in the program is 99.99% LBMA-certified bullion, securely stored by the Central Bank of Sierra Leone. Remarkably, if gold prices increase, the purchase requirements will adjust downward, making this a smart and adaptable investment choice for forward-thinking investors.
LBMA is the acronym for the London Bullion Market Association. It is an international trade association, responsible for setting up standards in the global bullion market. Its members include traders, refiners, producers, miners, and storage and secure carrier services.
Key Benefits of The Program
- Fast Approval: 40-day application process
- Remote Application: Fully online process, no in-country residency required
- GFG Club Membership: Exclusive networking and investment opportunities with Sierra Leonean business leaders
- Tax Advantages: No national taxation consequences and tax residency certification available
- Global Flexibility: Banking facilities outside the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) framework
Successful applicants may purchase an additional 19 kilograms of gold at discounted rates over five years, enhancing their investment opportunities.
Barnes hinted at future developments: “Phase two will include an expedited pathway to naturalization. More details soon.”
Sierra Leone’s Chief Immigration Officer, Hon. Alusine Kanneh, underscored the program's critical importance: “This initiative unlocks the wealth of our land while harnessing the ambition of our people. Sierra Leone is evolving into a modern, inclusive, and progressive nation.” Sierra Leone has shown resilience and innovation, highlighting its role in Africa’s economic revival. This program also provides applicants with broader residency options within ECOWAS, which consists of 15 member countries.
Sierra Leone is a prime destination for savvy investors seeking residency opportunities. This initiative allows investors to gain permanent residency by investing in gold, contributing to the country’s economic development. With all-inclusive packages and a refund policy, it provides a secure and flexible choice for long-term residency.
Theo Edwards for YAME
Sierra Leone: 63 Years of Abject Failure and the Endless Cycle of Loans
A legacy of visionless leadership and perpetual dependency. Another loan. Another press release. Another moment for Sierra Leone’s so-called leaders to pat themselves on the back while the nation sinks deeper into poverty. The World Bank just approved an $80 million financing package for Sierra Leone — $60 million for budget support and $20 million to prepare for natural disasters. And we’re supposed to celebrate? —enough is enough.
By Reggie Cole — December 14, 2024
A legacy of visionless leadership and perpetual dependency
—enough is enough
By Reggie Cole | December 14, 2024Another loan. Another press release. Another moment for Sierra Leone’s so-called leaders to pat themselves on the back while the nation sinks deeper into poverty. The World Bank just approved an $80 million financing package for Sierra Leone — $60 million for budget support and $20 million to prepare for natural disasters. And we’re supposed to celebrate?
No, this is an indictment of 63 years of abject failure, incompetence, and corruption by both the APC and SLPP.
In a country with 44 minerals, 7 rivers, and arable land that could make us the breadbasket of West Africa, we are borrowing to pay wages.
This is the legacy of these two political parties — a legacy of visionless leadership and perpetual dependency.
Let’s not pretend that natural disasters or pandemics are the root cause of our economic misery. The real culprits are the policy missteps, corruption, and lack of innovation from those in power.
I started a business from my children’s bedroom with a £100,000 loan. Within 36 months, I paid back the lender £1 million, and that business grew to a valuation of £120 million. That’s called vision, hard work, and accountability. Meanwhile, Sierra Leone — a nation blessed with immense natural wealth — has leaders who can’t even keep the lights on without running to the World Bank or IMF, cap in hand.
What kind of foolishness is this?
How can a country with so many resources and potential be reduced to begging for $80 million to survive? This isn’t just incompetence; it’s a national disgrace. While our politicians hoard wealth in foreign mansions and send their children to elite schools overseas, the average Sierra Leonean endures misery, poor infrastructure, and a stagnant economy. The people are robbed blind, yet still wave flags for these failed parties.
APC and SLPP supporters, listen up
If you continue to endorse these thieves, you deserve every struggle you face. Your loyalty is being weaponized against you. Your future is being auctioned off to international lenders who care nothing for your well-being. This is what happens when visionless leaders are allowed to rule unchecked — they trade your prosperity for their personal comfort.
Sierra Leone’s potential is limitless, but until we reject this cycle of corruption, tribalism, and short-term thinking, we will remain beggars at the global table. The answer isn’t another loan or another IMF program. The answer is visionary leadership that can turn our resources into wealth, our potential into prosperity, and our struggles into success.
It’s time to say enough is enough. Sierra Leone doesn’t need another loan — it needs leaders with courage, integrity, and a plan for genuine growth. Until then, expect more loans, more poverty, and more disappointment.
#Lonta!