In the process of terror, arrests happen at night. It is far, far safer to take someone into custody if they are not surrounded by their followers

Matthew 26

At that hour Jesus said to the crowds, “Have you come out with swords and clubs to arrest me as though I were a bandit? Day after day I sat in the temple teaching, and you did not arrest me. 56But all this has taken place, so that the scriptures of the prophets may be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples deserted him and fled.

via Daily Lectionary Readings — Devotions and Readings — Ministries & Programs — GAMC.

In the times of terror, your allies do not want to be caught. Like the Moscow residents cowering in their flat thinking if they are silent the Chekists will find another sheep to make up their quota, people abandon the person who has been arrested.

I wonder if this is why those who visit prisoners are praised. To visit is to make oneself noticed. It is to ally with the undesirables — to be politically incorrect. And we need the courage to do this, for love is supposed to drive out fear, not fear drive out love.