New Delhi, July 3 - Amid a series of terror attacks in different parts of the West African country, India has expressed grave concern over the abduction of three Indian nationals in Mali. A day after the Indians were abducted, New Delhi on Wednesday asked the Malian government to ensure all necessary measures for their "safe and speedy" release.
The Ministry of External Affairs has advised all Indians living in Mali to exercise utmost caution, remain vigilant and remain in touch with the Embassy in Bamako for regular updates and necessary assistance. The ministry said it will provide all possible assistance to the Indians and is committed to ensuring the safe return of the abducted Indian nationals.
The Ministry of External Affairs has expressed "deep concern" over the abduction of Indians working at the Diamond Cement factory in Kayes. The ministry said, “The incident took place on July 1 when a group of armed assailants attacked the factory premises and forcibly took three Indian nationals hostage.” Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimeen, an al-Qaeda affiliate, claimed responsibility for the attacks in Mali on Tuesday.
The Indian Embassy in Bamako is in touch with the relevant authorities, local law enforcement agencies as well as the management of the Diamond Cement factory, the ministry said. The statement said the mission is also in touch with the family members of the abducted Indian nationals.
“The Government of India condemns this heinous act of violence and calls on the Government of the Republic of Mali to take all necessary measures to ensure the safe and early release of the abducted Indian nationals. 
Senior officials of the ministry are closely monitoring the situation and are making efforts at various levels for the safe and early release of the Indian nationals,” the ministry said in a statement.