Three Indian Nationals Abducted by Al-Qaeda-Linked Militants in Mali Cement Factory Attack

News Flash

03 July

Indian Government Condemns "Deplorable Act", Urges Mali to Ensure Safe and Speedy Rescue of Hostages

New Delhi: In a deeply concerning development, three Indian nationals working at a cement factory in Kayes, western Mali, have been abducted by militants associated with the banned terror outfit Al-Qaeda. The incident occurred on July 1, when heavily armed assailants carried out a coordinated attack on the Diamond Cement factory, taking multiple hostages including the three Indians.

According to local reports, the kidnapping was orchestrated by Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimeen (JNIM)—a notorious Al-Qaeda-affiliated group responsible for several violent attacks across Mali in recent years.

Reacting swiftly, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a strong condemnation of the act and emphasised the need for immediate action.

“The Government of India condemns this act in the strongest terms. We urge the Government of Mali to take all necessary steps to ensure the safe and speedy return of our nationals.”
– Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India

MEA officials confirmed that the Indian Embassy in Bamako is in “close and constant contact” with Malian authorities, the Diamond Cement factory management, and local law enforcement agencies. A rescue operation is currently underway, and the families of the abducted workers are being regularly updated.

“Senior officials of the Ministry are closely monitoring the situation and are engaged at various levels to facilitate the safe and speedy release of the Indian nationals.”
– MEA Official Statement

The Indian government also issued a public advisory for all Indian citizens residing in Mali, urging them to remain vigilant and stay in regular contact with the Indian Embassy for updates and assistance.

In the meantime, the MEA reiterated its commitment to support the affected families and assured that “all possible support will be provided.”

The kidnapping of foreign nationals, particularly in conflict-ridden regions like Mali, has become a recurring concern, with extremist factions targeting strategic economic zones to assert control and instil fear.