Bamako: Five Indian nationals working in Mali have reportedly been kidnapped by armed gunmen amid a worsening security situation in the West African country. The abducted individuals were employed by a company involved in electrification projects and were seized near the town of Kobri, according to security sources cited by AFP.

A company representative confirmed the incident, stating, “We confirm the kidnapping of five Indian nationals.” In response to the situation, other Indian employees working for the same company have been evacuated to Mali’s capital, Bamako, ensuring their safety. As of now, no group has claimed responsibility for the abductions.

Historical context: Militancy and kidnappings in Mali

Mali has been experiencing persistent instability over the past decade, with criminal organizations and jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State operating across the country. In September 2025, for instance, jihadists associated with the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) kidnapped two Emirati nationals and an Iranian near Bamako. Those hostages were released last week after the payment of a ransom reportedly exceeding $50 million, highlighting the high stakes involved in such abductions.

The kidnapping of Indian nationals comes at a time when Mali is facing a severe economic and humanitarian crisis. The country is currently under the rule of a military junta, and ongoing unrest has disrupted essential services and daily life. Fuel shortages and blockades have forced the government to close schools, limit electricity supply, and prevent harvesting in certain regions, compounding the difficulties faced by ordinary citizens.

Government and company response

While the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has yet to release an official statement on the incident, the company involved has acted swiftly to secure the safety of other Indian staff. The evacuation to Bamako is seen as a precautionary measure, as the security situation in areas outside the capital remains highly volatile. Security experts have warned that foreigners working in sensitive sectors, such as infrastructure and energy, are at heightened risk amid the ongoing unrest.

Political and humanitarian impact

President Assimi Goita, addressing the nation on Monday, urged citizens to reduce unnecessary travel and adhere to safety measures while assuring them that the government was “doing everything possible to deliver fuel” and maintain essential services. However, the combination of political instability, economic hardship, and the presence of armed militant groups has made the situation highly precarious.

The abduction of the Indian nationals underscores the complex security challenges facing Mali and the wider Sahel region, where kidnapping for ransom has become a common tactic for both criminal organizations and jihadist groups. Analysts note that incidents such as this not only threaten the safety of expatriates but also disrupt international development projects, including critical infrastructure and electrification initiatives.

As of now, the fate of the five Indian hostages remains unknown. Diplomatic channels are expected to be engaged to secure their safe release, while security forces in Mali are likely to conduct operations to locate the kidnapped individuals. Meanwhile, other Indian employees and expatriates in the region are being advised to remain vigilant and follow all safety protocols amid the ongoing crisis.

The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, given the broader implications of escalating militancy in Mali, which has already destabilized neighboring countries in the Sahel region and hindered development efforts.