Sierra Leone’s security agencies have intensified their search for Umarr Sheriff and alleged international drug trafficker Jos Leijdekkers as part of ongoing efforts to disrupt organized drug trafficking networks operating across national borders.
Abdul Karim Will, Director of Strategic Communications at the Office of National Security (ONS), confirmed the search during AYV’s State of the Nation programme on Wednesday, August 19, 2026. The programme was hosted by journalist Umaru Fofana.
“We are officially looking for Umarr Sheriff, and we are also looking for Jos Leijdekkers in Sierra Leone,” Abdul Karim Will said.
He disclosed that Sierra Leonean security authorities had conducted joint operations with their Liberian counterparts, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation in combating the movement and distribution of illegal drugs.
According to Abdul Karim Will, the prompt exchange of credible intelligence among security agencies is essential to identifying suspects, intercepting illegal shipments and dismantling the networks responsible for supplying drugs across borders.
“It is important that sensitive information is communicated promptly to help curtail the drug supply chain,” he stated.
Abdul Karim Will explained that international drug trafficking networks are often highly organized and possess the resources and expertise required to infiltrate institutions and exploit weaknesses in national security systems.
He, however, assured the public that Sierra Leone’s security architecture remains coordinated and prepared to respond effectively to such threats.
“These individuals are organized and know how to penetrate systems. That is why the ONS is equally organized and prepared to counter their activities,” he said.
The ONS Director of Strategic Communications appealed to members of the public to provide credible information that could assist the authorities in locating the two individuals.
“I am calling on the public to assist us with information about the whereabouts of Jos Leijdekkers,” Abdul Karim Will said.
He further urged anyone with information regarding either suspect to contact the appropriate security authorities.
“If you have any information about Umarr Sheriff or Jos Leijdekkers, whom we are currently looking for, we encourage you to share that information with the relevant authorities,” he added.
The Office of National Security maintained that public cooperation, effective regional coordination and the timely sharing of intelligence remain essential to disrupting organized drug trafficking networks and protecting Sierra Leone from transnational criminal activities.
