What type of policing is referred to as "Night patrol"?

The term "Night patrol" refers specifically to the traditional system of policing known as "Watch." This practice dates back to historical times when watchmen were responsible for patrolling the streets during nighttime hours to maintain order and ensure public safety. The watch was a community-based system where men (and sometimes women) would take turns monitoring their neighborhoods, often using lanterns or torches to light their way, hence the association with "night."

The watch system emphasized the importance of visible policing and community presence, particularly during darker hours when criminal activity was more likely to occur. This concept laid the groundwork for modern policing practices, including the establishment of professional police forces. The focus of the watch was not only on crime prevention but also on being a reassuring presence within the community.

The other terms, such as "Ward," "Bobby," and "Patrol," relate to different aspects or types of policing but do not specifically denote the night-focused duties associated with watchmen. For instance, "Bobby" refers to the British police and is named after Sir Robert Peel, who established the Metropolitan Police in London, while "Patrol" typically refers to the active and ongoing enforcement done by officers. "Ward" often pertains to specific divisions or sectors within a