Two Bosnian citizens released after 50 days of captivity in Mali

Ilicic revealed that he had refrained from commenting publicly on the case while negotiations and rescue efforts were ongoing, explaining that “every wrong word could endanger their lives.” He stated that the two men are now safe and traveling to the Malian capital before returning home to their families.

Kidnapping and search efforts

Kokorus and Petrovic, both originally from the central town of Visoko, went missing in early September while traveling through Mali. For weeks, information about their whereabouts was scarce, until it was later confirmed that they had been kidnapped by militants linked to JNIM (Jama'at Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin), an Al-Qaeda affiliate operating in the region.

According to Ilicic, the ordeal began after the men stopped communicating for nearly two days. Concerned, the wife of one of the victims reached out to him for help. Through his contacts in Mali, Ilicic learned that an armed attack had occurred on a road between the towns of Bla and San, on the way to Mopti. The Bosnian citizens, along with their driver, were abducted during the ambush. The driver was released days later and recounted the incident in detail.

The role of local contacts

Ilicic, known for traveling to some of the world’s most remote and dangerous areas, credited his international network for helping to verify the situation and coordinate communication with authorities.

He explained that from the outset, it was evident that the jihadist group JNIM was responsible, despite conflicting reports suggesting that the men might have been detained by local authorities or involved in smuggling or espionage. “From the very beginning, it was clear they were kidnapped by jihadists,” he said.

Adventurers at heart

Describing the two men as passionate travelers who had visited over 100 countries, Ilicic reflected on the thin line between adventure and danger in regions like Mali — one of the most perilous countries in the world today.

“Many will ask why they went there, why they took the risk. But those who have felt the pull of the unknown know that it’s not madness — it’s a calling,” he wrote, acknowledging the thrill and purpose that drive explorers like Kokorus and Petrovic.

A happy ending

For more than 50 days, Ilicic remained in close contact with the families of the kidnapped men, exchanging information and sharing hope amid fear and uncertainty.

“We were in touch every day, sharing information, hopes, and fears. I know how difficult it was for them to stay calm without knowing where their loved ones were,” he said.

Their release marks a relief-filled ending to a harrowing ordeal. Both men are reportedly in good condition and are expected to return to Bosnia and Herzegovina soon to reunite with their families.