Photo: Screenshot from the Chinese Embassy in Mali
In light of the recent surge in heinous incidents such as kidnappings and attacks targeting foreign enterprises and personnel, the Chinese Embassy in Mali reiterated its warning on Saturday evening, urging all Chinese nationals in the country to enhance security precautions and suspend all mining operations immediately.
The embassy said on its official WeChat account that malicious incidents such as kidnappings and attacks targeting foreign enterprises and personnel outside Mali’s capital, Bamako, have occurred frequently, resulting in severe consequences and escalation of security risks.
For this reason, the embassy reminded all Chinese nationals in the African country to implement all necessary measures to strengthen security precautions. Nationals are required to refrain from traveling to suburban areas, not going out alone, or venturing out at night, the embassy said.
It also noted that if conditions permit, nationals should evacuate as soon as possible to relatively safe areas such as Bamako.
In case of kidnappings or armed robberies, nationals should maintain composure and eschew provocative actions, the embassy said, noting that it is imperative to prioritize personal safety, escape at an opportune moment when safety is ensured, report to the police promptly and contact the embassy.
All Chinese gold mining enterprises and personnel in Mali are urged to categorically reject complacency, immediately suspend all operations and production and expedite relocation to Bamako, according to the embassy.
It also required all enterprises and personnel to complete relevant information registration to facilitate the provision of consular protection and assistance during emergencies, and has attached its consular protection contact number.
The embassy further urged nationals in Mali to enhance their ability to verify information, refrain from believing or spreading rumors to avoid unnecessary panic, and contact the embassy for information verification.
Global Times