Mali: Record Ransom Paid for Former Emirati General's Release
The Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), affiliated with Al Qaeda, has reportedly received a record ransom for the release of three hostages, including a former Emirati general from the Dubai royal family.
Details of the Hostages and Ransom
- JNIM blocked Mali's fuel supplies since early September.
- The group obtained $50 million in cash and $20 million in ammunition for releasing Joumaa bin Maktoum al-Maktoum, a retired Emirati general and Dubai royal family member, along with two other UAE residents.
- The other hostages include a Pakistani citizen and an Iranian employee.
Additional Kidnappings and Demands
JNIM also claimed responsibility for kidnapping two Egyptian hostages suspected of working with the Bamako junta. They demanded a $5 million ransom for their release.
“JNIM received up to $50 million in cash and $20 million in ammunition for the release of Joumaa bin Maktoum al-Maktoum, a retired Emirati general involved in the gold trade and a member of the Dubai royal family, and two other UAE residents.”
JNIM denied kidnapping an American pilot.
Investigation and Source
Investigative journalist Wassim Nasr, a contributor to France 24 and jihadism expert, reconstructed the story of these kidnappings and ransom payments.
Author's summary: JNIM has adapted its kidnapping tactics, achieving a record ransom payment of $50 million for a former Emirati general and two others, revealing the growing sophistication of jihadist groups in Mali.