Dutch journalist freed after espionage charges dropped in Sierra Leone
Authorities in Sierra Leone have dropped all charges against Dutch journalist Sophie van Leeuwen, who was detained on suspicion of espionage despite holding the necessary press credentials. Van Leeuwen, an Africa correspondent for RTL Nieuws, has been released and allowed to leave the country.
Van Leeuwen was in Sierra Leone to report on the whereabouts of Dutch fugitive Jos Leijdekkers, also known as ‘Bolle Jos,’ a convicted criminal linked to drug trafficking and money laundering. She was arrested on Thursday at a security checkpoint, where officials accused her of lacking the proper documentation to conduct journalistic work in the country.
Despite possessing the required accreditation, Van Leeuwen was taken into custody and transferred to a police station for interrogation. Her passport, electronic devices, and other personal belongings were confiscated. Over the next two days, she was extensively questioned by agents from the country's criminal intelligence unit. Authorities also searched her accommodations and examined her media files.
During her detention, Van Leeuwen was prohibited from leaving Sierra Leone, raising concerns about press freedom and the treatment of foreign journalists in the country.
On Saturday, authorities officially informed Van Leeuwen that all suspicions against her had been lifted, clearing her of any wrongdoing. She was given back her passport and most of her confiscated equipment. However, two memory cards remained in the possession of Sierra Leonean officials. Additionally, police erased certain video files from her laptop, citing security concerns.
RTL Nieuws editor-in-chief Ilse Openneer expressed relief at Van Leeuwen’s release. “It is good that the local authorities recognized that there was no basis for an espionage charge,” Openneer said. “We are relieved that she is free and hope she will soon be reunited with her family in South Africa.”
Sierra Leonean officials have not provided further clarification on why Van Leeuwen was detained despite her accreditation. The journalist has not yet commented publicly on her arrest or release. It remains unclear whether the Dutch government was involved in securing her freedom or if any diplomatic intervention took place.
