Terror attack in Mali: 3 Indians, including 2 from Telugu states, abducted by al-Qaeda-linked militants; diamond cement factory staff taken hostage

HYDERABAD: In a suspected terror attack on a cement factory in Kayes city in Mali in west Africa, three Indian nationals, including two from Telugu states, were abducted on July 1 by militants believed to be linked to the al-Qaeda-affiliated Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM).The abducted individuals include a senior employee from Maharashtra serving as general manager, Amareswar, a service engineer from Miryalaguda in Telangana, and Ramana, a foreman from Andhra Pradesh. Intelligence sources from Telangana and AP confirmed their identities and roles at the plant.

The Diamond Cement unit confirmed the abduction but declined to share further details. The factory is owned by Hyderabad-based Prasaditya Group, which is believed to have facilitated the men's employment in Mali.The Indian embassy in Bamako, capital of Mali, is working with local authorities and the Mali govt to secure their release. 'Ensure safe, swift release of Indians' Embassy officials are also in regular contact with the families of the abducted men and the factory's management. Following the incident, senior executives from Prasaditya Group flew down to Mali and are coordinating with local law enforcement authorities. When approached for comment, Motaparti Siva Rama Prasad, chairman of the group, declined to speak on the matter.

The ministry of external affairs said in a statement, "The embassy of India in Bamako is in close and constant communication with Malian authorities, law enforcement, and the management of Diamond Cement factory.""The govt of India strongly condemns this cowardly act of violence and urges the Republic of Mali to ensure the safe and swift release of the abducted Indian nationals," the MEA said. While no group has officially claimed responsibility yet, security agencies suspect the involvement of JNIM.