Sewa News Stream

 An X post reports on an AD newspaper article detailing a tense exchange at a summit, where the Netherlands' Prime Minister Dick Schoof urged Maada Bio to extradite Jos "Bolle Jos" Leijdekkers, a fugitive convicted of smuggling over 1,000 kg of cocaine valued at €50 million. Leijdekkers, a 33-year-old Dutch national wanted since 2023, evaded capture by relocating to Sierra Leone, marrying Bio's daughter Agnes in early 2024, and integrating into the president's inner circle, as evidenced by photos of him at official events alongside family members. This family connection has complicated bilateral ties, with Dutch officials viewing it as state-sponsored protection for a major European drug trafficker, potentially affecting Sierra Leone's international aid and cooperation amid ongoing scrutiny of Bio's administration. Prime Minister Dick Schoof has urgently requested the President of Sierra Leone to extradite cocaine dealer "Bolle Jos" Leijdekkers....

Today marks a significant milestone: the 10th anniversary of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists. While we take a moment to recognize this important day, our focus shifts to a troubling situation in Freetown. Recent reports from the Freetown City Council (FCC) highlight a disturbing rise in the number of deceased individuals found on the streets, especially among the youth. This tragic increase in fatalities has been mainly linked to the emerging Kush pandemic, raising urgent public health concerns. Since January 2025, the FCC has reported a staggering total of 253 bodies collected , putting immense pressure on the city's mortuary facilities and burial operations. The situation at the Connaught Hospital mortuary has become increasingly difficult, with a growing number of unclaimed and unidentified bodies. Similar issues have arisen in other regions, complicating efforts to accommodate additional remains. There have been instances where caretakers, o...