Three Indian nationals working at the Diamond Cement Factory in Kayes, western Mali, were abducted by terrorists linked to the banned Al-Qaeda outfit, officials confirmed on Thursday, July 3. The coordinated attack was carried out by heavily armed militants who stormed the facility and took several workers hostage.
Local media reported that the assault created panic at the factory, which employs workers from multiple countries.
In a statement, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) strongly condemned the “deplorable act of violence” and called on the Malian government to ensure the “safe and expeditious” release of the Indian workers. The MEA added that Indian authorities are in touch with their counterparts in Mali and are closely monitoring the situation.
