John Gill Commentary 2 Kings 6:14

"Therefore sent he thither horses, and chariots, and a great host: and they came by night, and compassed the city about." — 2 Kings 6:14 (ASV)

Therefore sent he there horses and chariots, and a great
host
To terrify the inhabitants from attempting to defend the prophet, but deliver him up at once:

and they came by night ;
that they might come upon them unawares, and their design not be discovered, so as to have timely help from Samaria, which was not far off:

and compassed the city about ;
that the prophet might not make his escape out of it.