Mali is experiencing a sharp rise in insecurity as jihadist groups carried out a record number of abductions targeting foreigners this year.
ACLED data shows that between May and October 2025, 22 to 26 foreign nationals were abducted, the highest number ever recorded in the country.
This nearly doubles the previous record of 13 kidnappings in 2022.
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Victims include nationals from China, India, Egypt, the UAE, Iran, and several from the Balkans, including Serbia, Croatia, and Bosnia. Most of these abductions are linked to JNIM, the Al-Qaeda-affiliated coalition operating across the Sahel.
Experts say kidnappings have become a key part of JNIM’s “economic jihad,” with ransoms reportedly reaching up to $50 million in some cases.
Beyond funding militant activities, the attacks aim to scare away foreign investment and destabilize Mali’s fragile political and economic systems.
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The surge threatens diplomacy, development projects, and regional security across West Africa.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
