Elaborate and showy security protection has always been provided for Elijah Muhammad by the FOI bodyguards. Much of this protection in the past undoubtedly was ceremonial and ritualistic evidence of his followers' respect for him as the "Messenger of Allah."
Since early 1964, however, when Malcolm X and many other cult members left the NOI, the protection afforded Elijah has been very serious and complete. During the Summer of 1964, a new procedure was inaugurated to protect Elijah. Formerly, his escorts numbered into the hundreds. Confusion and shoving resulted when they attempted to enter buildings and automobiles. The new plan is for the supreme captain of the FOI and a selected few highly trained and trusted FOI men tightly to surround Elijah at all times. On either side of these bodyguards, a column of security escorts acts as the buffer guard. The FOI guards are constantly reminded that they are the soldiers of Islam, serving the greatest general, Elijah Muhammad, and that every "Fruit" must be willing to sacrifice his life for "the Messenger."
After the assassination of Malcolm in New York City on February 21, 1965, and subsequent threats by Malcolm's followers against Elijah and NOI property in Chicago, Elijah advised the press that he did not fear for his life; nevertheless, he welcomed the protection afforded him by the Chicago police.
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