3 Indians Abducted by Al-Qaida-Linked Militants in Mali; Rescue Efforts Underway
Three Indian nationals working at a cement factory in Mali were abducted by terrorists suspected to be linked to the al-Qaida-affiliated group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), officials confirmed on Thursday. The abduction took place during a coordinated attack on the Diamond Cement Factory located in Kayes, a region in western Mali.
According to local reports, heavily armed assailants stormed the facility on July 1 and forcibly took the Indian workers hostage. The attackers are believed to be members of JNIM, an al-Qaida-linked militant group responsible for numerous attacks across Mali and the broader West African region.
In response, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India issued a strongly worded statement condemning the “deplorable act of violence.” The ministry has called on the Malian government to take urgent and decisive steps to ensure the “safe and expeditious release” of the Indian nationals.
“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.
Indian officials said that the Indian Embassy in Bamako is working closely with Malian authorities, local law enforcement agencies, and the management of Diamond Cement Factory. The mission is coordinating rescue efforts and has also established contact with the families of the abducted individuals to keep them informed of developments.
“Senior officials of the Ministry are closely monitoring the situation and remain engaged at various levels to facilitate the safe and early release of the Indian nationals,” the ministry added.
The MEA has also issued an advisory urging Indian citizens residing in Mali to remain vigilant, exercise extreme caution, and stay in regular contact with the Indian Embassy for safety updates and assistance.
JNIM, the suspected group behind the abductions, has been designated as a terrorist organization by several countries and international bodies. The group has previously claimed responsibility for numerous high-profile attacks in Mali and neighboring nations, often targeting foreign nationals and infrastructure projects.
The kidnapping of foreign workers, particularly in conflict-prone regions like western Mali, remains a persistent threat due to the presence of extremist groups. India has previously issued advisories to its citizens working in or visiting high-risk areas in Africa.
The Indian government reiterated its commitment to securing the release of the abducted nationals and assured that it would extend all possible support to their families.
Rescue operations are currently ongoing, and further updates are awaited as the situation continues to develop.
IT.
