Three Indian nationals have been kidnapped by an Al-Qaeda-affiliated terrorist group in Mali, West Africa, sparking fear and desperation among their families. Among the abducted is 28-year-old P. Venkataraman, a resident of Samarajhol village in Odisha's Ganjam district. He had been working at a cement factory in Mali when the incident occurred.

Venkataraman’s mother, Narasama, a widow, is overwhelmed with fear. “I am very much worried about the fate of my son. I request the government for his safe release,” she said, her voice breaking. She has been unable to contact him since news of the abduction surfaced and has sought help from the police.

Family Alleges Ransom Demand, Company Silent

The victim’s brother-in-law revealed that the family initially received a call from the cement company, informing them that Venkataraman and others were in police custody after terrorists attacked the facility. Later, reports emerged that Al-Qaeda militants had kidnapped workers from the area.

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“We called the company to confirm this, but they refused to share any information and said the terrorists are demanding ransom,” he told ANI. Frustrated by the silence, the family lodged a police complaint and reached out to the Indian embassy via calls and emails.

MEA Condemns Attack, Assures Action

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has expressed serious concern over the abduction. In a statement, the ministry said, “It has come to the knowledge of the Government of India that many military and government installations at multiple locations of western and central Mali were attacked by terrorists on July 1.”

Calling the attacks “deplorable,” the MEA assured that the Indian embassy in Bamako is in constant contact with Malian authorities, law enforcement, and the management of Diamond Cement Factory. The embassy is also in touch with the families of the abducted workers.

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Terror Group Behind Abduction Suspected

Security sources believe the abduction may have been orchestrated by Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), a prominent Al-Qaeda-linked militant group operating in the Sahel region. The group has previously targeted foreign workers and military outposts in Mali.

As fear deepens, the families of the abducted Indians continue to appeal for urgent intervention. “We just want him home safely,” said Venkataraman’s brother-in-law. Their message is clear: Bring them back safely. Do whatever it takes.