
Federal troops and law enforcement agencies are being deployed to Washington, D.C., following a directive from President Donald Trump. The move comes amid growing concerns over a recent rise in youth-related crime in the capital.
The deployment includes National Guard personnel, along with agents from the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Officials say the goal is to provide additional support to local police, increase visibility in high-risk areas, and help address specific criminal activity involving minors.
Authorities have not shared exact figures on the number of personnel involved, but they stress that the operation will focus on deterrence and rapid response. Patrols are expected in certain neighborhoods where incidents have been more frequent in recent weeks.
City officials have acknowledged the spike in youth crime, pointing to a combination of factors, including school closures during holidays, social media disputes escalating offline, and access to illegal firearms. The coordinated response is intended to stabilise the situation before it worsens.
While some community leaders have welcomed the move as a step toward restoring safety, others have expressed concern about the presence of federal troops on city streets. They argue that long-term solutions will require investment in youth programs, education, and job opportunities rather than a purely security-driven approach.
The federal agencies involved have said they will work closely with D.C. police to ensure operations are targeted and temporary. For now, the increased presence will likely be visible across the city in the coming days.