Authorities in Suriname have apprehended a Cuban couple in connection with the baffling disappearance of 52-year-old Dutch film producer, Rodney Leysner. Leysner's vehicle was discovered burned, crushed, and buried in a marshland, intensifying the mystery surrounding his case.
The Cuban nationals are among three suspects currently in custody, with a fourth individual still at large, as reported by NOS and NL Times.
The Vanishing of a Film Producer
Leysner vanished on August 15th, after departing for a business meeting in Saramacca district, located west of Paramaribo. His last known activity was recorded around 4:43 p.m., and attempts to reach him since have been unsuccessful.
In a heartfelt plea, his mother, Dulci Bunsee, took to social media, urging the public, "Help me find my son."
The Unsettling Discovery
On August 21st and 22nd, a breakthrough occurred when police discovered a charred and flattened vehicle buried in a Saramacca swamp. Despite its severe condition, investigators retrieved the chassis number, confirming it matched Leysner's white Kia Sorento, license plate PP 21-35, as reported by Starnieuws.
This finding prompted authorities to officially classify the disappearance as a potential criminal case.
Suspects in Custody and a Fugitive
Beyond the Cuban couple, a Surinamese citizen has also been detained. Meanwhile, a fourth suspect, identified locally as Ryan T., remains on the run. Police have searched multiple residences in an attempt to locate him but have yet to succeed.
According to a report by De Telegraaf, experts suggest that the suspect's voice might be present in some of the last known footage of Leysner.
The producer's body has not been found as of the latest updates. Police have cautioned against speculation regarding his whereabouts as the investigation proceeds.
Leysner's Professional Legacy
Leysner is celebrated in both the Netherlands and Suriname for his contributions to cinema and business. His production work includes films like Heksen bestaan niet (2014) and Fashion Chicks (2015), which earned the Golden Film award after drawing over 100,000 viewers in Dutch cinemas. He also contributed to the production of Suriname (2020) and performed as a DJ under the stage name Sam Sin.
In Suriname, Leysner held an executive position at Rudisa, a major business conglomerate with ventures in media, automotive, and food industries.
Family and Community Efforts
His family launched a GoFundMe campaign to support search efforts, which has raised nearly 28,000 euros out of a 30,000-euro goal. "We want to do everything possible to find Rodney and understand what happened to him," the family stated, as reported by RTL.
This incident follows other violent events involving Cubans in Suriname. In June, a Cuban woman escaped captivity and alleged a human trafficking ring, leading to the arrest of a Cuban and a Surinamese national. Additionally, in July 2025, a Cuban woman was murdered in front of her daughter in Suriname.
As of now, authorities have not disclosed the specific role attributed to the arrested Cuban couple, nor have they announced formal charges. The investigation remains active as Leysner's family awaits answers regarding his fate since that fateful August afternoon.
FAQs on Rodney Leysner's Disappearance in Suriname
Who is Rodney Leysner?
Rodney Leysner is a Dutch film producer known for his work in both the Netherlands and Suriname. He has been involved in successful films and also served in a prominent business role in Suriname.
What is known about the suspects in Leysner's case?
Three suspects, including a Cuban couple and a Surinamese citizen, are in custody. A fourth suspect, identified as Ryan T., is still at large. Authorities are actively searching for him.
How has the community supported the search for Leysner?
Leysner's family initiated a GoFundMe campaign to fund search efforts, which has garnered significant support, raising nearly 28,000 euros.