National Guard on ‘alert’ with roving patrols in DC after alleged terror suspect’s shocking ambush

National Guard members in Washington DC have shifted their tactics in response to a recent ambush that left one soldier dead and another critically wounded. Before the attack, Guard members were stationed in fixed locations around the city. However, in the aftermath of the incident, small groups of Guard members are now engaging in roving patrols to make their presence less predictable.

These patrols include briskly maneuvering through downtown DC on foot, with the aim of increasing vigilance and deterring potential threats. The change in strategy comes after suspect Rahmanullah Lakanwal allegedly gunned down Sarah Beckstrom, 20, and Andrew Wolfe, 24, in a brutal attack.

Guard members are now also joined by members of DC’s Metropolitan Police Department during patrols, adding both firepower and local terrain knowledge to the mix. This collaborative effort acknowledges the risks involved and aims to enhance security measures in the city.

Former Assistant FBI Director Chris Swecker highlighted the importance of reinforcing each other’s presence to act as a deterrent against potential threats. He noted the challenges of preventing such attacks in crowded public spaces, emphasizing the need for heightened alertness and strategic deployment of resources.

President Trump responded to the incident by ordering an additional 500 National Guard members to be deployed in DC. This move supplements the 2000 Guard troops already serving in the city as part of Trump’s “Safe and Beautiful Task Force.”

The new patrols and collaborative efforts between the National Guard and DC police signify a proactive approach to enhancing security measures in Washington DC. By remaining vigilant and adaptable, authorities aim to protect both Guard members and the public from potential threats in the future.