NEW DELHI, July 3: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has expressed deep concern over the abduction of three Indian nationals in the Republic of Mali and has demanded immediate measures for their safe rescue. The workers were employed at the Diamond Cement Factory in Kayes, where a group of armed assailants carried out a coordinated attack on July 1 and forcibly took the three Indians hostage.

In an official statement issued on Wednesday, the MEA confirmed that the Indian Embassy in Bamako is in close and constant communication with Malian authorities, local law enforcement, and the management of the cement factory. The Ministry is also in touch with the families of the abducted individuals and has assured them that every effort is being made to ensure their early release.

“The Ministry of External Affairs expresses its deep concern regarding the abduction of three Indian nationals employed at the Diamond Cement Factory in Kayes, Republic of Mali,” the statement read. “Senior officials of the Ministry are closely monitoring the evolving situation and remain engaged at various levels to facilitate the safe and early release of the Indian nationals.”

While no group has claimed direct responsibility for the kidnapping, the development comes just a day after Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), a terror outfit affiliated with Al-Qaeda, claimed responsibility for a series of coordinated attacks across Mali. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility that the same group is involved in the abduction.

India strongly condemned the attack and urged Malian authorities to take urgent steps to locate and rescue the hostages. The MEA also issued a safety advisory for Indian nationals residing in Mali, urging them to “exercise utmost caution, remain vigilant,” and stay in contact with the Indian Embassy for timely updates.