Terror Threat in West Africa: Five Indian Nationals Taken Hostage in Mali

Five Indian Nationals Kidnapped in Mali While Working on Electrification Project

Bamako / New Delhi, November 8, 2025 —
Five Indian nationals have been kidnapped by armed gunmen in western Mali, officials and company sources confirmed on Friday. The abductions took place on Thursday (November 6) near the town of Kobri, an area affected by increasing militant and criminal activity.

According to security sources cited by local media, the workers were employed by a company engaged in electrification and infrastructure development projects in Mali. “The men were taken by unknown armed assailants while traveling for work,” a local security official said, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the situation.

The company employing the workers has confirmed the incident and stated that they are in contact with local authorities and the Indian Embassy in Bamako. Efforts are underway to locate and secure the safe release of the abducted employees.

MEA in Contact with Mali Authorities

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Mali’s government to facilitate rescue operations.
A senior MEA official said, “We are aware of reports regarding the kidnapping of Indian nationals in Mali. The Embassy is in touch with local authorities to ensure their early and safe release.”

Background: Mali’s Security Crisis

Mali, a landlocked nation in West Africa, has been grappling with widespread insecurity and jihadist insurgencies for nearly a decade. Large parts of the country remain under the influence of extremist groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State, particularly in the northern and central regions.
In recent years, kidnappings of foreign nationals have become increasingly common, often carried out by militants or criminal groups seeking ransom.

Concerns for Worker Safety

The incident has once again raised concerns about the safety of Indian nationals working in high-risk regions. Several Indian companies have been involved in infrastructure, power, and mining projects across Africa, employing hundreds of skilled and semi-skilled workers.

Families of the abducted individuals in India have reportedly been informed by the company and are appealing for government assistance to bring their loved ones back safely.

Next Steps

Malian security forces, with the support of local intelligence networks, have launched search operations in the area surrounding Kobri. Authorities are yet to confirm whether any group has claimed responsibility for the kidnapping.

The Indian government has advised citizens working in conflict-prone regions to remain cautious and follow embassy-issued security advisories.