ASSESSMENT OF COMMUNITY POLICING AND CRIME PREVENTION IN THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY (FCT), ABUJA

Abstract

This study examines the role of community policing in crime prevention within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. With urban centres experiencing rising crime complexity, including armed robbery, kidnapping, drug-related offences, and cybercrime, conventional policing alone has proven insufficient. The research investigates the extent of community involvement, the effectiveness of collaboration between citizens and law enforcement, and the relationship between community policing and crime reduction. A descriptive survey design was employed, targeting residents, community policing personnel, vigilante groups, and law enforcement officers across selected FCT area councils. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including mean scores and Chi-square tests. Findings indicate that community policing significantly contributes to crime prevention, particularly through enhanced citizen engagement and crime reporting. However, effectiveness is moderated by factors such as trust, socioeconomic conditions, institutional capacity, and consistency in police-community collaboration. The study concludes that sustainable crime prevention in the FCT depends on strengthening community policing structures, improving trust between citizens and law enforcement, providing adequate training and resources, and addressing underlying socio-economic challenges. Recommendations include intensified civic education, youth empowerment programs, and the integration of digital reporting systems to enhance proactive community-based security initiatives.