By Sulagna Halder
New Delhi, 3 July 2025:
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed today that three Indian nationals were kidnapped from a factory in the Kayes region of Mali amid rising militant violence.
In addition to urging Malian authorities to guarantee their "safe and expeditious release," the MEA stated that its embassy in Bamako is closely coordinating with local authorities and the relatives of the hostages. They were captured when suspected Al-Qaeda militants attacked the Diamond Cement Factory on July 1. Media reports state that on the same day, numerous government and military installations in central and western Mali were also targeted. The MEA emphasised its commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens overseas and called the kidnappings a "deplorable act of violence."
"The Government of India categorically denounces this heinous act of violence and calls upon the Government of the Republic of Mali to take all necessary measures to secure the safe and expedited release of the abducted Indian nationals," the MEA said in an official statement. In order to expedite a speedy resolution, the statement also mentioned that Indian diplomats in Bamako have increased their interaction with pertinent local law enforcement and factory officials.
With extremist groups operating throughout Mali, frequently with spillover into Burkina Faso and Niger, the attack in Kayes is a part of a larger spread of instability. As militants increasingly target both military and industrial installations, the kidnapping of Indian workers at a civilian facility underscores the region's increasing risk to foreign nationals.
The Indian embassy continues to offer consular assistance and has been in constant communication with the families of the kidnapped individuals. Additionally, the MEA has released a travel advisory advising Indian nationals in Mali to exercise caution and stay in touch with the mission in Bamako. The increase in militant activity has been denounced by international organisations and regional governments. In the past, United Nations experts have called for the unconditional release of those who are detained and emphasised the necessity of protective measures throughout the Sahel. The Indian government has prioritised the safe return of its citizens as diplomatic efforts pick up steam. The MEA promised that high level officials are actively involved in accelerating cooperation and will continue to keep an eye on developments. A swift and amicable resolution to the crisis is anticipated by the Indian diaspora and interested parties.
