The abduction of three Indian nationals in Mali has prompted serious concern and swift action from the Indian government. The incident, which occurred on July 1, 2025, involved a coordinated armed assault on the Diamond Cement Factory in Kayes, where the Indian workers were employed.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has strongly condemned the abduction, labeling it a "deplorable act of violence". The Indian government has formally called upon the Malian government to take all necessary measures to ensure the safe and swift release of the abducted citizens. Senior officials within the MEA are closely monitoring the situation and are actively engaged at various levels to facilitate the safe return of the Indian nationals.

The Indian Embassy in Bamako is in close communication with Malian authorities, local law enforcement, and the management of Diamond Cement Factory. The embassy is also in contact with the families of those abducted, providing support and updates on the situation. The MEA has reiterated its commitment to providing all possible support to the abducted individuals and their families, emphasizing that ensuring their safe return is a top priority.

The abduction took place amidst a series of coordinated attacks by Al-Qaeda affiliate Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) across Mali. These attacks targeted multiple military and government sites in western and central Mali, highlighting the escalating security crisis in the region. While JNIM has claimed responsibility for the broader attacks, the group has not yet claimed responsibility for the abduction of the Indian nationals.

The Indian government has issued an advisory to all Indian citizens residing in Mali, urging them to exercise utmost caution, remain vigilant, and stay in close contact with the Indian Embassy in Bamako for updates and assistance. It's estimated that approximately 400 Indians reside in Mali, primarily working in retail, mining, and the steel and cement industries.

Mali has been grappling with a growing Islamist insurgency since 2012, with the security situation deteriorating further following military coups in 2020 and 2021. The country is also dealing with unresolved kidnappings of foreign nationals, particularly Asian workers, in recent years. The recent surge in violence and the targeting of foreign workers underscore the instability in Mali and the broader Sahel region, posing a significant security threat with global implications. Many countries depend on the Sahel region for resources like oil, gas, and uranium, and the presence of numerous foreign workers and businesses means that instability in the region can have far-reaching consequences.