3 Indians Abducted In Mali Terror Attack, Al-Qaeda Link Feared Behind Assault

Kayes (Western Region) [Mali], July 03: Three Indian workers were taken hostage after armed men stormed the Diamond Cement Factory in Kayes. The incident happened on July 1 during a coordinated terror attack. The armed assailants targeted the premises, forcing the employees into their vehicles. The Indian embassy confirmed the men were working at the factory. This sudden turn of events has sparked panic among Indian citizens in Mali. The factory is located in a region often troubled by terror-linked activities, and this incident has once again brought attention to safety issues in conflict-hit areas like Kayes.

Widespread Attacks Across Mali

The group JNIM has ties to al-Qaeda. JNIM refers to Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin. This group is believed to be behind this act. They have not directly claimed the abduction. But they reportedly took responsibility for other strikes on the same day. Military posts and towns near Mali’s borders with Senegal and Mauritania were also attacked. The violence was not limited to just Kayes. Other places like Diboli and Sandere also saw heavy assaults, signalling how deeply rooted the unrest has become in the region.

India’s Official Response

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has condemned this act of abduction. It also asked the Malian government to act fast. India has stressed the need for immediate action to free its citizens. The embassy in Bamako has been working closely with the local police and the factory management. Family members of the kidnapped workers have been kept informed. Senior MEA officials are monitoring the developments. The government wants Mali to take strong and urgent steps to ensure the safe return of the abducted Indians.

Mali’s Growing Security Crisis

Since 2012, Mali has faced rising threats from jihadist groups. It started in the north. But now it has spread to many parts of the country. Al-Qaeda and Islamic State-linked fighters often target security forces, civilians. They even target aid workers. Mali’s current military leadership has struggled to control this growing violence. Apart from terror threats, there are also local rebel groups and criminal gangs creating fear. Many foreign nationals working in Mali have become targets over the years due to this unstable situation.

India Issues Warning For Citizens Abroad

Following the incident, the MEA has advised all Indians living in Mali to remain alert. The ministry said they must stay connected with the embassy. They also asked to avoid unsafe areas. Safety messages and updates are being shared by the embassy to help citizens. As India continues talks with Malian officials, families of the hostages wait for hopeful news. The government has promised to keep working at all levels until the Indian nationals are rescued and returned home safely.