Mali sees record surge in foreign kidnappings by jihadist groups
With international actors increasingly targeted, the crisis poses growing risks for diplomacy, development projects, and regional security across West Africa.
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00:00Mali is facing a dramatic escalation in security as Jihadis groups have carried out a record number of kidnappings targeting foreigners this year.
00:10According to data from ACLED, at least 22 to 26 foreign nationals were abducted between May and October 2025, the highest figure ever recorded in the country.
00:22The number nearly doubles the previous record of 13 kidnappings in 2022. Victims include Chinese, Indian, Egyptian, Emirati and Iranian nationals.
00:34These abductions are largely attributed to JNIM, the Al-Qaeda-linked coalition operating across the Sahel.
00:42Experts say the practice has become a key pillar for JNIM's so-called economic jihad.
00:48Ransoms have reportedly reached staggering levels. In one case, the group is believed to have secured up to $50 million for the release of an Emirati hostage and his entourage.
01:00Beyond financing militant operations, these kidnappings aim to undermine foreign investment and further destabilize Mali's already fragile political and economic landscape.
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