New Delhi/Bamako: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has expressed grave concern following the abduction of three Indian nationals employed at the Diamond Cement Factory in Kayes, located in western Mali. The incident took place on July 1, 2025, when a group of armed attackers stormed the premises of the factory and took the workers hostage in a violent and coordinated assault.
Confirming the development, the MEA stated that the Indian Embassy in Bamako, Mali’s capital, is in close contact with the local government, law enforcement authorities, and the management of Diamond Cement Factory. The Indian Mission is also maintaining direct communication with the families of the abducted workers and is providing them with updates and support.
The attack in Kayes is part of a broader pattern of escalating violence in the region. On the same day—July 1—multiple military and government facilities across western and central Mali were targeted by armed groups, believed to be terrorists. The simultaneous nature of the attacks has raised concerns about a coordinated campaign of violence in the West African nation, which has seen a surge in insurgent activity in recent years.
In a strongly worded statement, the Indian government condemned the abductions and called upon the authorities in Mali to take immediate and comprehensive measures to ensure the safe and swift release of the kidnapped nationals. Senior officials at the MEA are closely monitoring developments and maintaining diplomatic engagements with their Malian counterparts to facilitate efforts for the rescue.
“This is a deeply deplorable act of violence,” the MEA said. “The Government of India urges the Government of the Republic of Mali to take all necessary steps to secure the early and safe release of the Indian citizens. We are actively engaged at multiple levels to address the situation and ensure their safe return.”
The statement further emphasized India’s consistent policy of prioritizing the safety and welfare of its citizens abroad. Indian nationals currently residing or working in Mali have been advised to exercise extreme caution and to stay alert in light of the deteriorating security environment. The MEA has also urged them to remain in regular contact with the Indian Embassy in Bamako for real-time information and emergency support.
The Embassy has reportedly activated emergency response protocols and is working round the clock to coordinate with Malian security forces and local officials. A dedicated team has been assigned to follow up on developments and provide updates to concerned stakeholders in India.
Although no group has formally claimed responsibility for the abduction, Mali has been grappling with a prolonged security crisis driven by insurgent groups, many of which are affiliated with international terrorist networks. The region of Kayes, while relatively more stable in the past, now appears to be under increasing threat as instability spreads from northern and central Mali.
India has a small but active expatriate community in Mali, primarily engaged in industrial and infrastructure development. Incidents such as this have raised serious concerns regarding the safety of Indian professionals and workers in conflict-prone areas.
The MEA assured that it would continue to provide every possible assistance to the families of the victims and reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to bringing the abducted citizens back safely.
“The Ministry remains in constant touch with the affected families and will leave no stone unturned in securing the release of the Indian nationals,” the statement concluded.
This latest development underscores the growing security challenges in Mali and serves as a grim reminder of the risks faced by foreign nationals working in volatile regions. As efforts intensify to resolve the crisis, the Indian government’s focus remains firmly on the safe and timely return of its citizens.
