On Sunday,11January2026, at DurusarGawoMarket in Sokoto State, suspected bandits carried out a violent attack that left two currency exchange dealers dead, alarming traders and residents while raising urgent security concerns in the border region.
Sequence of the Attack at Durusar Gawo Market
The attack occurred around 2:00 p.m., during one of the busiest trading hours when shoppers and traders were deeply engaged in transactions. Witnesses said that a group of about twelve men, armed with rifles and riding motorcycles, suddenly appeared at the market’s entrance. Their approach was swift, calculated, and designed to catch both traders and market-goers off guard. Many people fled in panic, while some sought shelter behind stalls and vehicles.
The bandits quickly headed to the Bureau de Change (BDC) section, where the victims were operating. According to eyewitnesses, the attackers targeted the currency dealers directly, showing remarkable precision. One dealer, Alhaji Ummaru, was shot dead instantly, while Alhaji Sani sustained serious injuries and later died at DogonDutseHospital. The bandits reportedly took significant sums of cash in both Nigerian naira and foreign currencies before fleeing through nearby back routes toward the border with Niger Republic. Read more here Police, Military Take War to Bandits in Kogi Forests
Traders at the market expressed shock at the boldness of the attack. Several of them mentioned that the bandits acted with apparent confidence, returning briefly after their initial escape to warn remaining traders against intervening. Such actions reinforced the sense of fear and highlighted the growing sophistication of criminal networks operating in the region. Source
Why Durusar Gawo Market Was a Target
DurusarGawoMarket is strategically located along the Nigeria–Niger border and is vital for regional commerce. It serves as a hub for foreign exchange transactions, livestock sales, agricultural products, and commercial goods. Currency dealers in this market handle significant sums daily, making them attractive targets for criminals. In addition, the market’s open layout and limited security presence make it vulnerable to sudden attacks.
Border proximity also makes escape easier for bandits. In the past, some attackers have exploited cross-border routes to evade arrest, and this attack appears consistent with such tactics. Experts argue that the combination of cash-rich targets, high foot traffic, and limited surveillance contributed to the market being singled out for this violent strike. More security updates visit Security updates Nigeria
Immediate Reactions from Authorities
The Sokoto State Police Command confirmed the attack and indicated that investigations were underway. Security forces have intensified patrols along key border areas and major access routes leading to DurusarGawoMarket. The police also emphasized the need for cooperation from local communities to provide timely intelligence that could prevent future attacks. Source
Despite these assurances, residents expressed frustration over the slow response. Many noted that police and military outposts are located far from the market, making rapid intervention difficult. Traders in the area have long called for more permanent security arrangements, arguing that the absence of a constant security presence emboldens criminals. One local vendor stated, “We come here to trade and earn a living. Our lives should not be at the mercy of armed bandits.”
Economic Implications for Traders and Border Communities
Currency dealers and market traders play an essential role in sustaining the local economy. They facilitate trade across borders, support small businesses, and enable smooth financial transactions. The deaths of Alhaji Ummaru and Alhaji Sani have undermined confidence among traders and prompted many to consider suspending operations in high-risk areas. Source
Economic analysts warn that persistent insecurity in border markets can reduce trade activity, increase costs, and push families into financial hardship. Informal commerce, which sustains the livelihoods of many rural communities, is particularly vulnerable. The sudden vulnerability of DurusarGawoMarket threatens not only the traders’ income but also the broader economic stability of border towns that rely heavily on cross-border trade.
Eyewitness Accounts Highlight the Brutality
Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos and fear. Shoppers ran in all directions, while some sought refuge in nearby houses and alleyways. A trader recounted that the bandits moved directly toward the currency dealers without hesitation, ignoring other stalls and people, signaling that the attack was targeted rather than random. This level of coordination suggests that the attackers had prior knowledge of the market layout and the presence of high-value targets. Source
Such eyewitness testimony highlights the growing sophistication of bandit groups in Sokoto and neighbouring states. Analysts suggest that organized criminal networks now conduct surveillance and plan attacks with strategic precision, further challenging local law enforcement capabilities.
Historical Context of Banditry in Northwest Nigeria
The attack at DurusarGawoMarket fits into a larger pattern of insecurity in northern Nigeria. Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, and Katsina states have witnessed a rise in banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery over the past decade. Bandits have evolved from small, opportunistic gangs into organized groups capable of carrying out targeted strikes against economic and community hubs. More context
Scholars note that the lack of permanent security infrastructure in many rural areas, combined with porous borders, has created ideal conditions for these groups. Historical neglect, weak law enforcement presence, and slow judicial processes have further emboldened them. Attacks such as this one demonstrate the urgent need for coordinated security strategies and community engagement.
Government Measures and Security Strategies
Authorities have implemented various measures, including joint military patrols, community liaison programs, and intelligence-led operations targeting known bandit hideouts. Security experts emphasize the importance of multi-layered approaches for protecting vulnerable markets:
- Permanent security outposts at key border hubs.
- Intelligence sharing between Nigeria and Niger Republic.
- Community watch groups integrated with official law enforcement.
- Rapid response units trained for rural terrain.
Despite these efforts, residents stress that more immediate and visible security measures are necessary to prevent future attacks. Traders argue that safe commerce is essential for economic growth and local development. Source
Community Reactions and Calls for Justice
Families of the victims, traders, and local leaders held a peaceful protest demanding justice and stronger protection. Market participants emphasized that they should not live in fear while earning a livelihood. Civil society organizations have also vowed to advocate for policy reforms to strengthen security at economic hubs, calling on the government to ensure the safety of traders in rural and border communities.
Local media reported that the protest highlighted the community’s frustration with slow governmental responses and inadequate security arrangements. Residents urged authorities to increase surveillance, deploy rapid response teams, and collaborate with local communities to prevent further loss of life. Source
Looking Forward: Strengthening Security in Sokoto Markets
The Bandits Invade Sokoto Market, Leave Two Currency Dealers Dead attack underscores the fragility of rural security and the importance of proactive measures. Experts recommend a comprehensive approach combining law enforcement, community engagement, and technological support such as CCTV surveillance, drone patrols, and rapid communication channels.
Strengthening security will restore trader confidence, protect livelihoods, and ensure continued economic activity. Border markets like DurusarGawoMarket are vital not only for local economies but also for regional trade networks that link northern Nigeria with neighbouring countries. Sustained attention to security will be crucial to prevent further tragedies and maintain economic stability. Source
Published: 11 January 2026
Location: DurusarGawoMarket, Sokoto State, Nigeria
Time of Incident: ~2:00 p.m. local time
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