Three Indians Kidnapped by Al-Qaeda-Linked Militants in Mali, Rescue Ops in Progress

Three Indian Nationals Abducted in Mali by Al-Qaeda-Linked Militants; Rescue Efforts Ongoing.

Three Indian nationals employed at a cement factory in Mali were abducted on July 1 by heavily armed militants suspected to be associated with the Al-Qaeda-affiliated group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM). The coordinated attack targeted the Diamond Cement Factory located in Kayes, a region in western Mali.

According to officials, the gunmen stormed the factory premises in a well-orchestrated operation, taking the Indian workers hostage at gunpoint. While no group has officially claimed responsibility, authorities suspect JNIM, a known Al-Qaeda proxy in the Sahel region, to be behind the abduction. JNIM has carried out several similar attacks in Mali in recent years, often targeting foreign nationals and strategic infrastructure.

India Condemns Attack, Demands Swift Action
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) strongly condemned the abduction, labelling it a “cowardly and deplorable act of violence.” In an official statement, the MEA called on the Malian government to take “urgent and effective” steps to ensure the hostages’ safe and prompt release.

“The Government of India unequivocally condemns this violent incident and calls upon the Republic of Mali to act decisively to secure the release of our citizens,” the statement said.

Embassy Coordinating Rescue Efforts
The Indian Embassy in Bamako is working closely with Malian authorities, local security forces, and the management of the Diamond Cement Factory. Officials confirmed that high-level diplomatic engagement is ongoing, and efforts are being made through all available channels to secure the safe return of the abducted nationals.

Families of the victims are being kept informed, and the MEA has assured them of full support. “Senior officials are monitoring the situation round the clock,” the ministry said.

Advisory for Indians in Mali
In light of the incident, the MEA has issued an advisory urging all Indian nationals residing in Mali to exercise heightened caution, avoid non-essential movement, and stay in close contact with the Indian mission for updates and assistance.

This incident underscores the deteriorating security situation in Mali, where Islamist groups have intensified their attacks, especially in regions with limited government control.

The Indian government reaffirmed its commitment to securing the hostages’ release and assured that it is exploring all diplomatic and operational options to ensure their safe return.