Two currency exchange operators were killed in a deadly attack by suspected Lakurawa gunmen at a busy border market in Darusa, Gudu Local Government Area of Sokoto State, late last week. The incident has thrown the community into mourning and raised serious concerns over the safety of traders in border areas.
According to eyewitnesses, the gunmen arrived at the market on four motorcycles, with two armed men on each bike. They reportedly opened fire on the currency exchange operators at close range before fleeing with large sums of money. The assailants appeared to have carefully monitored the victims prior to the attack, suggesting premeditation.
The victims have been identified as Alhaji Ummaru Darusa and Muhammad Sani, both of whom were well-known for running foreign exchange businesses that catered to traders from Nigeria and the neighbouring Niger Republic. Muhammad Sani was reportedly a Nigerien national who regularly conducted business at Darusa Market.
Darusa Market, located along the Nigeria–Niger border, is a major commercial hub for cross-border trade. The market serves as a lifeline for residents and traders who rely on currency exchange services to conduct business with buyers and sellers on both sides of the border. The attack has sent shockwaves through the trading community, with many now questioning their safety while carrying out business in the area.
Residents of the community expressed deep concern over the incident, noting the absence of adequate security at the market. “These gunmen have been operating in our area for some time. They know the movements of traders and strike when they see an opportunity,” one trader, who requested anonymity, said. “We need the government to send more security personnel to patrol the market and its surroundings.”
Confirming the attack, the Sokoto State Police Public Relations Officer, Ahmad Rufa’i, said the incident occurred on Thursday. According to him, one of the victims, Alhaji Darusa, died instantly at the scene, while Muhammad Sani was rushed to Dogon Daji Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The police spokesperson added that investigations have begun, and officers are working to track down the attackers. “We are aware of the incident and have launched an operation to apprehend the suspects. We urge residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information,” Rufa’i said.
The killings are part of a growing trend of insecurity in Sokoto State, especially in border communities where traders and residents are increasingly vulnerable to armed attacks. Analysts say the porous nature of Nigeria’s borders, coupled with inadequate security presence, has made it easier for criminal groups such as the Lakurawa to operate freely.
The Lakurawa are a loosely organized group of armed bandits known to target communities in northwestern Nigeria, especially those along the border with Niger Republic. They are believed to be involved in armed robbery, kidnapping, and smuggling activities, often exploiting weak law enforcement in these areas.
In recent months, reports of attacks on traders, farmers, and transporters in Gudu, Tangaza, and other border areas have increased. Residents say the violence has disrupted economic activities, with some traders now reluctant to operate at major markets for fear of being attacked.
Cross-border traders, in particular, face unique risks due to the nature of their business. Currency exchange operators, who handle large sums of cash daily, are frequent targets for armed groups looking for quick financial gains. In some cases, these attacks have left traders dead or seriously injured, further undermining commerce along Nigeria’s borders.
Community leaders have called on both state and federal authorities to strengthen security in border areas. “The government must act swiftly to protect our traders and residents. These attacks are not just targeting individuals; they are affecting the economy and creating fear in our communities,” one local leader said.
Sokoto State has, in recent years, implemented several security measures in border communities, including joint patrols between the police, military, and local vigilante groups. However, residents say these efforts have not been sufficient to curb the activities of armed gangs, who often strike with speed and precision before disappearing into remote areas.
The recent attack at Darusa Market highlights the challenges of policing border communities, where traders are exposed to both criminal gangs and the difficulties of maintaining cross-border commerce. Many observers believe that sustained government intervention, including better funding, intelligence sharing, and community policing strategies, is needed to secure these regions.
The killings have also reignited debates over Nigeria’s border security and the protection of citizens involved in legal cross-border trade. Traders and business associations have urged the government to implement stricter measures to protect their livelihoods, including the deployment of more security personnel, installation of surveillance systems, and regular patrols at key trading points.
For now, the community of Darusa is left to mourn the loss of two of its respected members. Alhaji Ummaru Darusa and Muhammad Sani were known not only for their businesses but also for their contribution to cross-border trade, which provides income and sustenance for many families. Their deaths have left traders fearful and anxious about the safety of others in the market.
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing, and efforts are being made to bring the perpetrators to justice. Meanwhile, residents are urged to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to prevent further attacks.