Odisha Man Among Three Indians Kidnapped by Al Qaeda-Linked Group in Mali
New Delhi – A man from Odisha is among three Indian nationals who have reportedly been kidnapped by an Al Qaeda-linked terrorist group in Mali, West Africa. The incident has sparked concern within the Indian government, which is working through diplomatic channels to ensure their safe release.
The abduction is believed to have taken place earlier this week in the Gao region of northern Mali, a territory that has witnessed increasing activity by extremist groups. Sources have confirmed that the group responsible is affiliated with Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslim, a known Al Qaeda ally in the Sahel region.
The three Indian nationals were working for a private company involved in infrastructure development. Their identities have not been officially released, but family members of the man from Odisha confirmed that they lost contact with him on Monday. Local sources in Mali reported that armed militants intercepted the vehicle in which the Indians were traveling and took them away at gunpoint.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has acknowledged the reports and stated that efforts are underway to verify the facts and ensure the safety of the Indian citizens. The Indian embassy in Bamako is coordinating with local authorities and international partners to gather more information and facilitate a swift resolution.
Family members of the Odisha man have appealed to the Indian government for urgent intervention. They expressed deep anguish and said they were praying for his safe return.
This is not the first time foreign nationals have been targeted in Mali. The country has long been a hotspot for militant activity, with several kidnapping cases involving foreign workers and aid personnel over the past decade.
Security experts have noted that the growing instability in the Sahel region continues to pose serious risks to foreign nationals, especially those working in remote or conflict-prone areas.
As of now, no group has formally claimed responsibility for the kidnapping, and no demands have been made public. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and further updates are expected as the situation develops.
