Police launches special church patrol to ensure safety during ember months

Abdullateef Fowewe

In a decisive effort to safeguard worship centres and residents in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) during the ember months, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, alongside personnel from the Department of State Services (DSS), local hunters, and vigilante groups, conducted a special joint patrol on Sunday, November 9, 2025.

The operation according to a statement on Monday by SP Josephine Adeh, Police Public Relations Officer to FCT Command, covered forested and border communities connecting Bwari to Kaduna State, Bwari to Niger State, and Gwagwalada to Niger State, running from 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Its goal was clear: “strengthening community confidence, deterring criminal elements, and ensuring that worshippers across the FCT can conduct their religious activities without fear of harassment or attacks.”

Church leaders in these areas were actively engaged and reassured of the Police Commissioner’s commitment to their safety.

They were advised to adopt proactive security practices, such as minimizing late-night activities and maintaining close communication with security agencies.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Miller G. Dantawaye, emphasised that “safety is a shared responsibility,” reminding residents to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly.

Additionally, the CP directed the blocking of routes frequently exploited by criminals and ensured that strategic security posts within forest areas remain under constant supervision as part of intelligence-led preventive efforts.

Residents are encouraged to use emergency lines—08032003913, 08068587311, CRU 08107314192, and the Public Relations Officer at 07038979348—to report concerns or seek assistance.

The statement concluded with assurance, “The FCT remains safe, and the Command will continue to adopt dynamic strategies to ensure a crime-free environment for all.”