Washington: US President Donald Trump announced Thursday his intention to join police and military forces in patrolling the streets of Washington, DC. "I am going to be going out tonight ... I am going to be going out tonight with the police and with the military," Trump stated during an appearance on the conservative talk radio program, The Todd Starnes Show.

According to Anadolu Agency, Trump's announcement is part of his ongoing efforts to address crime in the capital. Following an August declaration of a "crime emergency" in Washington, the Metropolitan Police Department was placed under federal control, and 800 National Guard troops were deployed to maintain order. Federal authorities report having made 550 arrests since the operation commenced on August 7, claiming to have achieved significant reductions in violent crime and robberies. The initiative has also targeted the clearing of numerous homeless encampments throughout the city.

The federal intervention has sparked criticism, with opponents protesting the measures. Demonstrators have been heard chanting "Free DC" during visits by administration officials to express gratitude to the troops for their deployment.