Three Indian nationals abducted by Al Qaeda-linked terrorists in Mali
The Indian ministry urged Mali to ensure the hostages' swift and safe release
Three Indian nationals working at a cement factory in western Mali were abducted by terrorists linked to the Al Qaeda-affiliated group Jama'at Nusrat Al Islam Wal Muslimin (JNIM), officials confirmed on Thursday.
The incident occurred on July 1 when heavily armed militants stormed the Diamond Cement Factory in the Kayes region during a coordinated assault.
Local reports suggest the attackers took the Indian workers hostage while launching simultaneous strikes on several Malian army positions across the west and central regions of the country.
JNIM claims responsibility for attacks
JNIM has claimed responsibility for the attacks, including one in Diboli, a town near the Senegal border that had previously been spared such violence. The group’s recent offensive marks the third major assault on Malian military forces in a month.
India condemns act, urges swift action
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) strongly condemned the kidnapping, calling it a “deplorable act of violence.” In a statement, the ministry urged Malian authorities to ensure the “safe and expeditious” release of the hostages.
“The Government of India unequivocally condemns this act and calls upon the Government of the Republic of Mali to take all necessary steps for the safe return of our nationals,” the MEA said.
The Indian Embassy in Bamako is in “close and constant touch” with local authorities, law enforcement, and the cement factory’s management to secure their release, it added.
Senior officials are monitoring the situation and keeping the families of the abducted workers informed. The MEA also advised all Indian nationals in Mali to exercise extreme caution, remain vigilant, and stay in regular contact with the embassy.
Curfew imposed
Following the attacks, Mali’s military claimed that over 80 terrorists had been "neutralised" and imposed a 30-day overnight curfew in the Kayes region. While residents reported a tense calm, fears of further violence persist.
Deepening security crisis
Mali has been grappling with a spiraling security crisis since 2012, with violence spreading from the north into central and western regions and spilling over into neighboring countries. The military juntas governing Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have struggled to contain the growing insurgency.
With inputs from AFP
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