‘Deplorable act of violence’: MEA after 3 Indian nationals abducted in Mali
The Indian government is actively working with Malian authorities to secure the safe and swift release of the hostages. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is in constant communication with local officials and the families of the abducted individuals. Tensions remain high in the region.
What happened
On July 1, three Indian nationals were abducted during a violent raid on the Diamond Cement Factory in Mali’s Kayes region. Armed men stormed the facility and took the workers hostage, sparking serious concern for their safety.
The abduction was part of a broader series of coordinated attacks carried out the same day across multiple locations in Mali.
Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), a terrorist organisation affiliated with al-Qaeda, has claimed responsibility for the widespread assault, which mainly targeted army bases and security installations across western and central Mali.
Tensions remain high in the region as efforts continue to secure the safe release of the abducted Indian workers.
How the MEA responded
In an official statement, the MEA confirmed that the Indian Embassy in Bamako, the capital of Mali, is maintaining constant communication with local officials and the families of the victims.
The Indian government has condemned the abduction, while calling it a "deplorable act of violence". In an official statement, it urged the Malian authorities to take all necessary steps to ensure their safe and prompt release.
"The Government of India condemns this deplorable act of violence and calls upon the Government of Mali to take all necessary measures for the safe and swift release of the abducted Indian nationals. Senior officials are closely monitoring the situation and remain actively engaged to facilitate their early return,” the statement read.
(Written by Niswarth)