The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expresses its deep concern regarding the abduction of three Indian nationals employed at the Diamond Cement Factory in Kayes, Republic of Mali. The incident occurred on 1st July 2025, when a group of armed assailants carried out a coordinated attack at the factory premises and forcibly took three Indian nationals as hostages.
A statement issued by the MEA said it has come to the knowledge of the Government of India that many military and government installations at multiple locations of western and central Mali were attacked by terrorists on 1 July 2025.
Mali is a landlocked country located in West Africa. It's bordered by Algeria to the north, Niger to the east, Burkina Faso and Côte d'Ivoire to the south, Guinea to the southwest, and Senegal and Mauritania to the west.
Indian Mission in touch with family members of abducted persons
According to the MEA release, the Embassy of India in Bamako is in close and constant communication with the relevant authorities of the Government of Mali, local law enforcement agencies, as well as the management of Diamond Cement Factory. The Mission is also in touch with the family members of the abducted Indian nationals.
Govt asks govt of Mali to take all necessary measures
The release said the Government of India unequivocally condemns this deplorable act of violence and calls upon the Government of the Republic of Mali to take all necessary measures to secure the safe and expeditious release of the abducted Indian nationals. Senior officials of the Ministry are closely monitoring the evolving situation and remain engaged at various levels to facilitate safe and early release of Indian Nationals.
All Indian citizens in Mali told to exercise utmost caution
The MEA spokesperson said the safety, security and welfare of Indian nationals abroad remains a matter of utmost priority for the Government of India. The Ministry advises all Indian citizens currently residing in Mali to exercise utmost caution, remain vigilant and stay in close contact with the Embassy of India in Bamako for regular updates and necessary assistance.
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.
Prakash Kumar Pandey