Kidnapping of foreigners soars in Africa’s lawless Sahel region

Foreign Kidnappings Escalate in Africa's Unpredictable Sahel

In the heart of the Sahel, travelers and expatriates are caught in the crossfire of escalating jihadist activities, turning dreams of exploration into desperate struggles for survival.

The Rising Tide

In 2025, the Sahel region witnessed a marked rise in the abduction of foreigners, with 30 incidents reported by November. These regions, particularly Mali and Niger, have become hotspots for jihadist groups like Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), who have turned kidnappings into economic warfare.

Caught in the Crossfire

Marin Petrović, a Bosnian tourist capturing Mali’s cultural gems, found himself kidnapped by al-Qaeda jihadists. His ordeal lasted over a month, where he survived on meager supplies, sustained by his mountain rescue expertise and a persistent determination to end his captivity.

Economic Exploitation

Kidnappings have evolved into a major income source for groups like JNIM, with ransoms constituting a significant portion of their revenue. Chinese nationals, predominant in Mali's lucrative gold mining ventures, make up the majority of foreign abductions, highlighting the intersection between local insurgencies and global economic interests.

A Glimmer of Hope?

Some foreign captives, like Petrović, have returned unharmed, signifying a possible shift in jihadist tactics. Yet, the fate of others, including Austrian Eve Greztmacher still held in captivity, remains grim, underscoring the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the precarious safety of expatriates and tourists in the Sahel.