By MONDAY IJEH

The Police Command in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) says it has commenced patrol of churches along Abuja border communities in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), local hunters and vigilante groups.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the FCT, SP Josephine Adeh said this in a statement on Monday in Abuja.

Adeh said the patrol was in line with the directive of the Commissioner of Police (CP) in charge of the FCT, Mr Miller Dantawaye.

She said the patrol operation was to ensure the safety of worship centres and residents of the FCT during the ember months,

According to her, the special church patrol within forested and border communities linking Bwari–Kaduna State, Bwari–Niger State, and Gwagwalada–Niger State commenced on Nov. 9.

”The operation is aimed at strengthening community confidence, deterring criminal elements, and ensuring that worshippers across the FCT can conduct their religious activities without fear of harassment or attacks.

”During the patrol, church leaders in the affected areas were engaged and reassured of the unwavering commitment of the CP to their safety and that of their congregations.

“They were also sensitised on proactive security measures, including the need to minimise late-night religious activities, maintain close contact with security agencies, and promptly report of any suspicious movements or persons.”

She quoted the CP as directing the blocking of identified access routes often exploited by criminal elements as part of intelligence-led preventive measures.

Dantawaye also directed that strategic security posts within the forest areas remain active and under constant supervision.

According to him, the security of lives and property is a shared responsibility; residents should remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with the police and other security agencies.

He enjoined residents to contact the command through its emergency lines on 08032003913, 08068587311 to report suspicious activities. (NAN)