FCT Police Launch Intensive Church Patrols Amid Ember Month Safety Drive
By Trek Africa Newspape
In a decisive move to safeguard worshippers during the ember months, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command intensified proactive security operations across the territory on Sunday.
Under the directive of Commissioner of Police, CP Miller G. Dantawaye, psc, the Command deployed its Anti-Kidnapping Unit in a coordinated patrol alongside personnel from the Department of State Services (DSS), local hunters, and vigilante groups.
The operation targeted forested and border communities linking Bwari–Kaduna State, Bwari–Niger State, and Gwagwalada–Niger State, areas that have in the past been vulnerable to criminal activity.
Patrols began at 6:00 AM and continued until 5:30 PM, with officers moving strategically through the communities to ensure visibility and deter potential attackers.
A key focus of the initiative was engaging with church leaders to reinforce confidence in the security agencies and reassure them of the Command’s commitment to protecting congregations.
Church authorities were also briefed on proactive security measures, including minimizing late-night activities, maintaining consistent communication with police, and promptly reporting suspicious movements.
The FCT Police Command emphasized that these preventive patrols were intelligence-led, targeting access routes frequently exploited by criminals operating in the forested border areas.
Strategic security posts have been established and remain active to provide a constant presence, sending a clear message that criminality will not be tolerated.
Residents in affected communities were urged to take personal responsibility for safety by remaining vigilant and cooperating fully with the police and allied security agencies.
Police officials said the operation also aimed to foster stronger relationships with local hunters and vigilante groups, whose knowledge of the terrain and community dynamics is crucial in proactive crime prevention.
