Rinus Otte, the head of the Public Prosecutor's Office in the NetherlandsRinus Otte, the head of the Public Prosecutor’s Office in the Netherlands, has expressed his firm belief that Jos Leijdekkers, also known as Bolle Jos, will eventually be arrested and sentenced. This is the first time a senior official from the Public Prosecutor’s Office has discussed the ongoing search for the fugitive in an interview with RTL Boulevard.
Otte was careful not to reveal too much information during the discussion, stating, “I could make sensible comments, possibly many sensible comments, but I choose not to. This case is currently under the jurisdiction of both the police and the Public Prosecutor’s Office, and it is extremely complex.” His remarks highlight the complexities of the ongoing investigation and legal proceedings.
Leijdekkers resurfaced in January after being on the run for several years. He is said to be living in Sierra Leone and dating President Julius Maada Bio’s daughter. In collaboration with Follow The Money, the AD released photos of Leijdekkers attending a New Year’s service at a church, confirming his location. Although authorities had identified the 33-year-old from Brabant, they did not request extradition until February.
Critics claim Leijdekkers is mocking Dutch authorities by fleeing to Sierra Leone. Otte acknowledged this perspective, saying, “That long nose, as you describe it, is a striking and vivid metaphor. However, I am confident that justice will prevail.”
In June of the previous year, Leijdekkers was sentenced to 24 years in prison for cocaine trafficking. Notably, he did not attend the trial and was not represented by an attorney. Otte commented on the complexities involved in carrying out the sentence, emphasizing that “care, precision, and all related processes must unfold correctly. It is not that we are unconcerned; we take this matter very seriously because he is a significant criminal who has received a lengthy sentence.”
“The Public Prosecutor’s Office remains committed to pursuing justice in the Bolle Jos case, despite the challenges and complexities that lie ahead”. Otte’s comments reflect a determination to see the legal process through and hold Leijdekkers accountable for his actions.
