Three Beninese Nationals Abducted in Gao Region by Armed Group

Gao, March 28, 2026 - Three nationals of Benin were abducted in northern Mali after being removed from a bus traveling along the Ansongo-Labbezanga road in the Gao region. The incident occurred near Ouattagouna, where one woman and two men were reportedly intercepted and taken to an unknown destination by members of the Islamic State in the Sahel. Local sources indicate the passengers were traveling through a corridor frequently affected by insecurity linked to armed groups operating in the area. No further information has been released regarding the whereabouts of the abducted individuals, and authorities have not yet issued an official statement on the incident. The abduction adds to ongoing concerns over civilian safety along key transit routes in northern Mali, where armed groups continue to operate despite security operations.