At least two people lost their lives while a large sum of money was stolen after suspected Lakurawa terrorists attacked Durusar Gawo village in Gudu Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
An eyewitness told Daily Trust that the attackers invaded the community at about 2:50 p.m. on Thursday, focusing their assault on the Bureau de Change section of the local market.
According to the source, about 11 armed men opened fire during the attack, killing two well-known businessmen, Alhaji Ummaru and Alhaji Sani, who were prominent Bureau de Change operators in the area.
It was also learnt that another individual sustained gunshot injuries, while a substantial amount of Nigerien currency was taken away as residents and traders fled the scene in panic.
“After the attack, two attackers returned on a motorcycle, telling residents the mission was complete. We closed our shops and ran for safety.
No security personnel have arrived so far,” the source said.
The eyewitness further disclosed that the same group had earlier infiltrated the market and surrounding villages last Friday, making away with an undisclosed number of livestock.
Community members lamented the deteriorating security situation, appealing for sustained security presence to protect lives and property.
“We want security more than anything. Schools are closing, and people now live in fear. It feels like there is no government on the ground,” another resident said.
Attempts to obtain a response from the police were unsuccessful, as calls and text messages sent to DSP Ahmad Rufai, the Sokoto State Police Command spokesperson, had not been returned as of press time last night.
