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According to reports, Al-Qaeda affiliate Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) has claimed responsibility for coordinated attacks across Mali on Tuesday. The group, active across the Sahel region, was formed in 2017 through the merger of several jihadist factions operating in Mali and neighbouring countries. It has pledged allegiance to Al-Qaeda and is known for targeting foreign nationals, security forces, and UN peacekeepers in West Africa.
The incident was part of a wider wave of violence that swept across multiple regions in Mali the same day. According to the MEA, military and government sites in both western and central parts of the West African nation were targeted in what officials described as a “planned act of terror”.
Describing the abduction as a “deplorable act of violence”, the Indian government condemned the incident and called on Malian authorities to ensure the swift and safe release of the hostages. Senior officials in the External Affairs Ministry are said to be closely monitoring developments and remain in touch with local authorities through diplomatic and security channels.
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India’s embassy in Bamako has established constant contact with Malian officials, the management of the factory, and security agencies operating in the region. It is also in regular communication with the families of the abducted Indians and is providing updates.
“The Ministry shall continue to extend all possible support and remains committed to ensuring the safe return of the abducted Indian nationals at the earliest,” said the MEA in a statement.
Reiterating that the safety of Indian citizens abroad remains a top priority, the Ministry advised all Indian nationals in Mali to exercise extreme caution, maintain vigilance, and remain in close contact with the Indian mission in Bamako for support.
