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  • Kenya Airways faces backlash after threatening Nigerian passenger to ‘call your president’

    Kenya Airways faces backlash after threatening Nigerian passenger to ‘call your president’

    The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and Kenya Airways have finally reached a resolution after a fiery showdown over the controversial treatment of a Nigerian passenger, Ms Gloria Ibukun Omisore, at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi.

    What started as a high-stakes standoff—complete with viral videos, diplomatic tensions, and accusations of mistreatment—has now culminated in a tense but settled agreement.

    Read also: TAAG Angola Airlines adds first Boeing 787 Dreamliner, ‘Namibe,’ to fleet

    Passenger denied boarding over Visa issues

    Ms Omisore was travelling from Lagos, Nigeria, to Manchester, UK, with a connecting flight in Nairobi, Kenya, on a ticket purchased from Kenya Airways. The journey was supposed to go through Nairobi, Paris, and then Manchester.

    However, during her journey, she was denied boarding on her connecting flight to Paris, with airline staff citing her lack of a Schengen Visa. The passenger claimed she was allowed to enter Nigeria through the same route, raising questions about the airline’s policy enforcement.

    A video of the altercation between the Nigerian passenger and Kenya Airways officials surfaced online, showing an airline agent telling her, “Call your president, you will not fly on Kenya Airways again.” This statement has drawn criticism, with many interpreting it as disrespectful and discriminatory.

    NCAA and Kenyan Airways exchange words

    The controversy quickly reached the highest levels of aviation regulation. Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at NCAA, condemned the airline’s “unprofessional and unacceptable” behaviour. While he stressed that passengers must follow regulations, he also insisted that Kenya Airways never should have issued her a boarding pass from Nigeria if she was ineligible.

    “Kenya Airways has a pattern of maltreating Nigerian travellers, including NCAA officials. This is the final straw!” Achimugu warned that there would be serious consequences if the airline did not resolve the situation.

    As tensions soared, Kenya Airways scrambled to contain the fallout, requesting additional time to provide further details. Meanwhile, the NCAA confirmed that security personnel were ensuring Ms. Omisore’s safety in Nairobi as the crisis unfolded.

    Kenya Airways responds to allegations

    In its response, Kenya Airways stood its ground, claiming the passenger was at fault for not securing the right visa. The airline alleged that she was offered an alternative route through London but refused.

    However, its most shocking claim was that the passenger became aggressive—going as far as allegedly removing and throwing used sanitary pads at staff. The graphic accusation has only fueled more debate, with many calling for a full investigation into the events that transpired.

    Read also: MTN, GTBank, Air Peace probed over poor service, exploitative pricing claims

    Behind closed doors: The deal that ended the crisis

    Following intense back-and-forth negotiations, an agreement was finally hammered out. Ms Omisore will be flown back to Nigeria tonight, ending her nightmarish ordeal. NCAA has also summoned Kenya Airways’ Acting Station Manager in Lagos for a final meeting to review CCTV footage and investigate the airline’s handling of the situation.

    The aftermath: What comes next?

    With the immediate crisis defused, the NCAA is preparing to scrutinise Kenya Airways’ handling of the situation closely. The upcoming official review in Lagos will determine whether the airline will face penalties or be required to implement policy changes regarding passenger treatment.

    The aviation authority has vowed to hold airlines accountable and ensure that passengers are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

    Passengers are also reminded to stay calm in disputes and report grievances through proper channels, as unruly behaviour can have legal consequences.

  • Dr Johnson Asiamah: The economist President Mahama nominated to lead Bank of Ghana

    Dr Johnson Asiamah: The economist President Mahama nominated to lead Bank of Ghana

    Ghana’s re-elected president, John Dramani Mahama, has nominated Dr Johnson Asiamah to be the next governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG)

    He was nominated for the position after the apex bank’s current governor, Dr Ernest Addison went on leave ahead of his retirement in March, 2025.

    Dr Asiamah’s nomination by the president has raised a lot of questions about his background and work experience in the finance industry.

     Read also: Accra AMA launches mobile payments for businesses

    Dr Asiamah’s professional and educational background

    Dr Asiamah is an economist with a robust career in banking supervision, macroecomic policy, as well as investment consultancy. He joined the Bank of Ghana in 1996 and has had a good career for decades.  

    He served as the Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana from May 2016 to January 2018, where he managed important departments, including Research and Statistics, and the Banking and Finance departments.

    Dr Asiamah holds a doctorate in Economics from the University of Southampton and is also a member of the American Economic Association. 

    A loud voice in Ghana’s economic sector

    In August 2019, Dr Asiamah openly criticised the then Nana-Addo government for allegedly mishandling the banking sector cleanup.

    According to him, public statements by some officials played a role in the collapse of some savings and loans companies.

    Read also: Ghana-Israel partnership eyes innovation in farming and renewable energy

    Responding to his statement, the Ghana’s apex bank refuted his claims and stressed on the importance of their actions to protect depositors.

    The banking sector cleanup had led to massive job losses and has negatively impacted the economy.

    In September 2024, he also raised concerns about the government’s ‘Gold for Oil’ initiative, stating that it is opaque in nature, has no clear blueprint and will burden the Bank of Ghana.

    As he prepares takes on the role of BoG’s governor, Ghanaian citizens are hoping that he is dedicated and committed to the position and is able to drive Ghana’s economic future to greater heights.  

  • TAAG Angola Airlines adds first Boeing 787 Dreamliner, ‘Namibe,’ to fleet

    TAAG Angola Airlines adds first Boeing 787 Dreamliner, ‘Namibe,’ to fleet

    TAAG Angola Airlines took delivery of its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on Friday, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s fleet modernisation strategy.

    The new aircraft, featuring a special commemorative livery, is the first of four Dreamliners set to join the fleet, reinforcing TAAG’s commitment to efficiency, sustainability, and an enhanced passenger experience.

    Read also: NCAA Lifts Suspension on United Nigeria Airlines’ Airbus

    A modern addition to TAAG’s fleet: The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner

    The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, named ‘Namibe’ and registered as D2-TEQ, arrived at Luanda Dr Antonio Agostinho Neto Airport (NBJ) on January 29, 2025, from Everett Paine Field (PAE). This aircraft is part of TAAG’s broader initiative to modernise its fleet, replacing ageing widebody planes and increasing operational efficiency. The airline currently operates Boeing 777-300ERs, 777-200ERs, and Next-Generation 737s, serving destinations across Africa, Europe, South America, and China.

    TAAG’s CEO, Nelson Pedro Rodrigues de Oliveira, highlighted the importance of this addition, stating, “The delivery of the 787-9 is a pivotal step in our strategy to modernise TAAG Angola Airlines’ fleet. This airplane brings the efficiency and versatility we need to meet growing market demands and deliver a world-class experience to our passengers.”

    Celebrating Angola’s 50th anniversary of independence

    The arrival of TAAG’s first Dreamliner is particularly symbolic as Angola approaches its 50th anniversary of independence (1975-2025). The aircraft’s new livery pays tribute to the country’s heritage, featuring the Palanca, a national symbol, displayed on the tail and engine fuselage. A commemorative logo celebrating the nation’s golden jubilee is prominently placed on the aircraft.

    The milestone aligns with national celebrations under the slogan “Angola 50 Years: Preserving and Valuing the Achievements Made, Building a Better Future.” These festivities aim to strengthen national pride and unity while reflecting on Angola’s progress toward freedom, peace, and development.

    Read also: British Airways launches Inaugural flight from London Gatwick to Accra

    Expanding long-haul operations & sustainability efforts

    The introduction of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner positions TAAG Angola Airlines to expand its long-haul network, with plans to launch new routes to Europe, Asia, and North America. The aircraft offers 25% lower fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared to older models, aligning with TAAG’s sustainability goals.

    TAAG is also working closely with Boeing to purchase CO₂ emissions reductions through a book-and-claim system associated with blended Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), further reinforcing its commitment to environmentally responsible operations.

    With additional 787-9 and 787-10 Dreamliners set to join the fleet soon, TAAG Angola Airlines is well-positioned to enhance connectivity, improve passenger comfort, and maintain its commitment to sustainability as it enters a new chapter in its history.

  • Kenyan importers to digitally obtain marine insurance certificate before clearance

    Kenyan importers to digitally obtain marine insurance certificate before clearance

    Kenya has mandated that all importers get digital maritime insurance for their goods from local insurers before customs clearance, effective February 14.

    This development is part of Kenya’s plans to transform the way importers obtain cargo insurance, firmly bringing the nation’s marine economy into the digital era.

    It is actually the end result of a process that started with the Finance Act of 2017, which first required local marine cargo insurance, even though some may see it as a bureaucratic roadblock. Kenya’s insurance industry would be strengthened by the new system’s simplified procedure, which should also make compliance simpler. Thankfully, importers have access to a wide range of internet outlets.

    Read also: Kenya’s incoming international calls increase by 57%

    Integration of M-PESA Super App 

    In addition to web portals and specialised platforms for insurance underwriters, the nation has incorporated the service within the well-known M-PESA Super App through the Coral Mini App.

    The architecture of the system is highly advanced since it facilitates smooth communication between several parties, such as the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA), and different insurance underwriters.

    The Import Declaration Form (IDF), the foundation of every request for an insurance certificate, is the key to the procedure.

    How to obtain the digital Marine Cargo Insurance Certificate

    The following procedure is simple yet thorough for importers and clearing agents:

    Access the IDF via any of the outlets that have been approved.

    Fill out the Marine Cargo Insurance Certificate digital form.

    Pay the premium fees.

    Read also: Rwanda seeks collaboration with Saudi Arabia on digital transformation

    Send the certificate through the IRA’s online system.

    The certificate is then instantly forwarded to KRA’s Integrated Customs Management System (ICMS), resulting in a seamless and paperless process from beginning to end.

    To modernise Kenya’s import operations and guarantee adherence to regional insurance regulations, the decision to digitise this process was made strategically.

    The nation is attempting to increase the capacity of its domestic insurance market while retaining control over maritime cargo insurance policies by requiring local insurance coverage.

  • M-KOPA wins trademark infringement case against former agent

    M-KOPA wins trademark infringement case against former agent

    M-KOPA, a leading asset financing startup in Kenya, has won a trademark infringement lawsuit against former agent John Waweru Njenga, who operated a business with a name and logo strikingly similar to M-KOPA’s. 

    The ruling, delivered on January 23, 2024, by High Court Judge Peter Mulwa, reinforces the importance of intellectual property rights in Kenya’s competitive business landscape.

    Read also: Former Nokia CEO Rajeev Suri appointed chairman of M-KOPA

    Trademark violation and court ruling for M-KOPA

    The legal battle began in August 2023 when M-KOPA sued Njenga for registering a business under the name “MKopo Kastomer Care and Accessories,” a name that closely resembled M-KOPA’s branding. The court found that the similarity in names and logos misled customers into believing that the two businesses were connected. Judge Mulwa ruled in favour of M-KOPA, stating that the infringement had diluted the company’s brand identity and constituted unlawful use of its trademark.

    Impact of the verdict on intellectual property protection

    This case highlights the ongoing issue of trademark infringement in Kenya, where businesses frequently copy well-established brands to attract customers. M-KOPA’s victory sets a precedent for stronger enforcement of intellectual property rights, ensuring that companies investing in brand development are protected from unfair competition. The ruling also serves as a warning to businesses attempting to exploit recognised brands for financial gain.

    Read also: M-KOPA expands to Ghana, grants $10 million in credit

    The future of brand protection in Kenya

    Despite this legal victory, the case underscores the need for stricter enforcement of intellectual property laws in Kenya. Trademark violations remain common, particularly in urban markets, due to weak regulatory oversight and lengthy court proceedings. For businesses like M-KOPA, defending their brand in court is costly but necessary to maintain market integrity. As more companies become aware of their rights, legal actions like this could help deter future infringements and create a fairer business environment.

    M-KOPA’s successful lawsuit secures its brand reputation and emphasises the importance of protecting intellectual property in Kenya’s growing economy. The ruling strengthens the company’s position and sets a legal standard for others facing similar challenges.

  • Court sets Sowore’s bail at N10 million in alleged cybercrime case

    Court sets Sowore’s bail at N10 million in alleged cybercrime case

    The Abuja Division of the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday granted bail to Omoyele Sowore, a prominent pro-democracy campaigner and 2023 presidential candidate for the African Action Congress (AAC), in the sum of N10 million. He must also provide a surety with a bond of the same amount, who must own property within the jurisdiction of the court.

     

    Courts sets Sowore’s bail conditions

    Justice Musa Liman, in his ruling on Sowore’s bail application, outlined specific conditions for the bail. The surety must be a responsible citizen and possess a landed property within the jurisdiction of the court. Additionally, Sowore and his surety are required to deposit their passports with the court, and the surety must submit an affidavit of means. The judge further set the next court date for April to commence the trial.

     

    Also read: Sowore to be arraigned for alleged cybercrime over ‘illegal IG’ post on social media

     

    Sowore faces cybercrime charges

    The Sahara Reporters publisher, who is also the convener of the #RevolutionNow protest, was arraigned on Wednesday on charges relating to cybercrime. The charges, which number 16 in total, were amended and filed by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun. Sowore pleaded not guilty to all charges.

     

    The amended charge, filed under case number FHC/ABJ/CR/23/2025, specifically accuses Sowore of defaming IGP Egbetokun through posts on his social media handle, X (formerly Twitter). In one of the counts, the police alleged that the activist, on December 20, 2024, referred to Egbetokun as the “illegal IG of Nigeria Police Force” on his X handle.

     

    Allegations of defamation via social media

    The charges also claim that Sowore posted a photograph of Egbetokun on his X account with a caption labelling the Nigerian government as “mediocre” and the country as being “run by characterless people”, asserting that such a nation could never progress. Another post allegedly warned that “IGP Kayode Egbetokun will destroy the Nigeria Police if we don’t act now.”

     

    Bail application and opposition

    After the activist entered his not guilty plea, his lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, moved for his bail, which was opposed by the legal counsel representing the IGP, M.U. Jonathan. Despite the opposition, Justice Liman granted the bail and adjourned the matter for trial in April.

     

    Also read: Afe Babalola agrees to withdraw defamation suit against Dele Farotimi

    The case has drawn considerable attention, particularly due to Sowore’s prominent role in political activism and his ongoing efforts to challenge corruption within the Nigerian government. With the trial now set for April, the legal proceedings are expected to continue to capture public interest.
  • Police file notice to discontinue defamation case against Dele Farotimi at federal court

    Police file notice to discontinue defamation case against Dele Farotimi at federal court

    The police have formally asked the Federal High Court in Ado-Ekiti to dismiss the defamation case against activist Dele Farotimi. This significant development follows a notice of discontinuance filed on January 29 2025, in which the police sought to end the legal proceedings originally initiated by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun.

    The police have cited the wish of the nominal complainant, Afe Babalola, as the primary reason for their request. Babalola, a renowned legal figure, had filed the defamation suit against Farotimi in connection with his controversial book Nigeria and its Criminal Justice System. However, Chief Babalola has since reversed his decision to pursue the case, a shift that played a pivotal role in the police’s move to discontinue the legal action.

    Request for dismissal filed in court

    The application to withdraw the charges was lodged in accordance with Section 108 (1)(2)(a) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, a legal framework that permits the discontinuation of criminal proceedings. The police prosecutor, Samson Osubu, signed the notice on behalf of the police.

    The legal team representing Dele Farotimi has already received the notice, and both sides are now awaiting a court sitting where the judge will formally strike out the defamation charge. This procedural move marks the latest twist in a case that has sparked public debate and garnered attention from across the country.

    Babalola’s change of heart and intervention from prominent figures

    Chief Babalola’s decision to withdraw the case came after a series of interventions from influential figures, including religious leaders, politicians, and traditional rulers. Among those who reached out to Babalola were former President Olusegun Obasanjo, ex-Governor Peter Obi, Bishop Hassan Kukah, and several prominent Yoruba monarchs.

    A particularly significant moment occurred when the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, visited Chief Babalola in Ado-Ekiti along with other traditional rulers to appeal for the case to be dropped. During this visit, the monarchs emphasised the importance of Babalola’s legacy and integrity, urging him to forgive Dele Farotimi and drop the charges. Babalola, after carefully considering the appeals, agreed to have the suit withdrawn, expressing that he had no desire to see Farotimi jailed. This shift in Babalola’s stance led directly to the police’s decision to file the notice of discontinuance.

    The defamation case has been the subject of widespread public interest, not only because of Farotimi’s controversial views in his book but also due to the involvement of prominent Nigerians like Babalola. Farotimi’s arrest and the charges against him sparked discussions about free speech, the criminal justice system, and the role of activists in challenging established norms.

    Read also: Afe Babalola agrees to withdraw defamation suit against Dele Farotimi

    The intervention by such a diverse range of figures reflects the deep significance of the case, and Babalola’s decision to withdraw the suit is seen by many as a gesture of reconciliation. The move brings an end to a legal battle that many had closely followed, with far-reaching implications for both the individuals involved and the broader political and social climate in Nigeria.

    With the case on the brink of being formally dismissed, Dele Farotimi’s legal troubles appear to be over for now, thanks to the combined influence of religious, political, and traditional leaders who intervened on his behalf.

  • Zambia launches citizen support portal to improve service delivery

    Zambia launches citizen support portal to improve service delivery

    To enhance service delivery and boost citizen engagement, the Zambian government launched the Citizen Support Services Portal on Tuesday.

    Through this cutting-edge online platform, citizens may report problems, ask for help, and monitor the progress of their requests in real time.

    Read also: SMART Zambia partners with CBU to drive localised software and systems development

    Citizen Support Portal to serve as communication bridge between government and citizens 

    The portal, created by the SMART Zambia Institute’s Electronic Government Division, attempts to close the communication gap between the public and the government by encouraging openness, responsibility, and effectiveness in the provision of services.

    The Citizens Support Portal’s launch has been hailed by Secretary to the Cabinet, Mr Patrick Kangwa, as a “momentous milestone” in Zambia’s journey towards a more interconnected and citizen-focused government.

    He also said that the days of “Boma Iyanganepo” are over because their voices will now be heard on the portal.

    Mr. KANGWA underlined that the portal’s purpose is to give citizens an easy-to-use interface for obtaining government services.

    “The Citizens Support Portal is a significant step towards creating a more responsive and citizen-centred government,” he added.

    Namibia to learn from Zambia’s Citizen Support Portal initiative 

    Speaking at the same event, Dr. George Simataa, Namibia’s Secretary to the Cabinet, stated that Zambia has taught his nation a lot about citizen-centric administration, particularly with the introduction of the Citizen Support Portal.

    Ms. Kusobile Kamwanbi, the head of the Presidential Delivery Unit (PDU), has emphasised the portal’s function in fostering effectiveness, accessibility, and openness, and that everyone has the opportunity to communicate with the government regardless of location or financial situation.

    “This initiative aligns with Zambia’s vision of leveraging technology to foster inclusivity, and enhance service delivery.”

    Read also: Zambia launches Citizen Support Portal for improved service delivery, transparency enhance government services

    Need for digital literacy for citizens to access Citizen Support Portal 

    Ms. Kamwambi underlined the need of digital literacy in ensuring that all residents can properly access the portal.

    “As we make strides in connecting and empowering 80% of Zambians with digital access and literacy by 2026, it follows naturally that government services must also transition to meet citizens where they are – digitally.”

    SMART Zambia’s national Coordinator, Mr Percy Chinyama, has underlined that the Citizen Support Portal functions as a bridge between the government and its residents, adding that it helps the public service to deliver services according to its original purpose.

    “The traditional way of just providing a service and not getting feedback has been proven as ineffective as we now have to meet citizens at their points of need ensuring continuous improvement of government services,” he said.

    The Citizen Support Portal, which was initially scheduled to be inaugurated on January 15, represents a critical turning point in Zambia’s digital transformation process.

  • 2 million Nigerians to gain electricity as AfDB invests $500M in Nigeria

    2 million Nigerians to gain electricity as AfDB invests $500M in Nigeria

    In a significant boost to Nigeria’s energy sector, President Bola Tinubu has announced that the Nigeria-Grid Battery Energy Storage System will receive a $500 million facility from the African Development Bank (AfDB).

    This announcement was made during President Tinubu’s participation in the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit in Tanzania on January 28th, 2025, emphasising Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing its electricity infrastructure.

    Read also: Senegal secures $8.7 million AfDB fund to replace outdated bulbs with energy-efficient LED lighting

    Nigeria’s leap towards universal electricity access

    The facility is part of a broader strategy to achieve universal electricity access in Nigeria by 2030. According to President Tinubu, this investment will significantly contribute to providing electricity to an additional two million Nigerians. This move aligns with the country’s ambitious goals set in the Dar es Salaam Declaration, focusing on electrifying 300 million Africans by the end of this decade.

    President Tinubu detailed the progress made with support from international development partners, highlighting that the AfDB has already committed $1.1 billion, expected to electrify five million people by 2026. Additionally, the bank’s $200 million investment in the Nigeria Electrification Project aims to benefit 500,000 people by the end of 2025. The new $500 million for the Grid Battery Energy Storage System adds to these efforts, showcasing a comprehensive approach to tackling energy poverty in Nigeria.

    Tinubu at the mission 300 Africa energy summit in Tanzania

    The summit, hosted by Tanzania in collaboration with the African Union, AfDB, and the World Bank Group, has been pivotal in rallying African leaders around the issue of energy access. The Dar es Salaam Declaration was a highlight of the event, with leaders from twelve countries, including Nigeria, signing commitments for national energy compacts. These compacts aim to address sector-specific constraints and set realistic targets for energy access.

    Renewable Energy Initiatives in Nigeria

    President Tinubu also underscored Nigeria’s ongoing investments in renewable energy, particularly solar power, as part of its strategy to ensure sustainable development. He mentioned the federal government’s initiative to develop an electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure program emphasising renewable energy and introducing stricter vehicle emission standards. This initiative is expected to ease adoption barriers, foster partnerships, and provide affordable financing options for electric vehicles, with the first 100 electric buses already in the country.

    Read also: Sierra Leone adopts results-based financing to expand solar minigrid electrification

    Tinubu’s call for collective action on electricity in Africa

    Tinubu called for collective action among African leaders to prioritise energy access, emphasising that Africa’s rich energy resources should be harnessed to benefit its citizens. He thanked the heads of the World Bank Group and AfDB for their vision, which he described as transformative in lighting up and powering Africa. This call to action was about addressing immediate energy needs and fostering economic growth and prosperity across the continent.

    The $500 million facility from the AfDB for the Nigeria-Grid Battery Energy Storage System marks a significant step forward in Nigeria’s journey towards energy sustainability and universal access. With this investment, alongside other planned initiatives, Nigeria is poised to make substantial strides in electrification, which could serve as a model for other African nations striving to overcome energy poverty. As Africa moves towards collective energy solutions, the impact of such investments will be closely watched to inform future policy and investment decisions in Tanzania, Nigeria, and beyond.

    This development signifies progress in Nigeria’s energy sector and reinforces the commitment of international bodies like the AfDB to support Africa’s developmental agenda, particularly in critical areas like energy, where access can transform lives, economies, and environments.

  • Europe’s most-wanted drug lord hibernating in Sierra Leone, Facebook video shows

    Europe’s most-wanted drug lord hibernating in Sierra Leone, Facebook video shows

    Jos Leijdekkers, listed among Europe’s most-wanted drug lords for a slew of charges —ranging from cocaine trafficking to armed robbery— was captured  at the New Year’s crossover in a church in  Tihun, Sierra Leone. according to a video shared by First Lady Fatima Maada Bio via Facebook.

     

    Reuters analysed the footage and confirmed Leijdekkers’s identity, affirming he sat two rows behind the Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio. 

     

    Most-wanted drug lord enjoys protection from President Bio’s security detail

     

    Citing three sources, the foreign newspaper reported that the fugitive was married to the president’s daughter, Agnes, which entitled him to top-tier protection. Despite being on the run, Leijdekkers enjoyed high-level protection from the president’s security detail.

    Europe's most-wanted drug lord hibernating in Sierra Leone, Facebook video shows

    A Dutch court in Rotterdam in June 2024 sentenced Leijdekkers, a repeat offender listed among Netherlands’ and Europol’s most-wanted criminals, was sentenced to 24 years imprisonment. He was convicted and sentenced in absentia for ordering the murder of a civilian,  shipping 7,000 kilograms of cocaine and his involvement in an armed robbery that took place in Finland.

     

    Having found Leijdekkers guilty of assault and drug trafficking, a Belgian court sentenced him in absentia in September 2024 to 10 years in prison.

     

    Dutch authorities confirmed that the  Europe’s most-wanted drug lord had been staying in Sierra Leone over the last six months.

     

    The drug lord served none of these sentences hibernating in Sierra Leone where Reuters’s sources said he now lives with the president’s daughter.

    The African nation has issued a rebuttal, saying that Sierra Leone “has no knowledge about the identity and the issues detailed in the reports about the individual in question” due to the large volume of “family events” that the president attended “during the festive season.”

     

    Time and again, Sierra Leone has come under heavy scrutiny over suspicions that the country served as a shipment conduit for Latin American cocaine being transported to Europe.

     

    The Sierra Leonean ministry released a statement affirming willingness to cooperate with all relevant agencies including Interpol and the Dutch government to handle the matter.