Russia Expands Military Police Powers to Combat Desertion

The Russian Ministry of Defense has proposed expanding the powers of the military police in the areas of investigation, search for deserters and draft dodgers, and escorting detainees. The draft decree, published by several sources, outlines new authorities for military police units. These include the ability to use ambushes, roadblocks, patrols, pursuit, and blocking of areas to search for those evading service. Commanders of military police units will also be able to perform the functions of investigative bodies in cases involving military personnel, volunteers, and civilian personnel. During a state of war or in conflict zones, detainees can be convoyed using regular army transport instead of special vehicles. Unidentified detainees can be photographed, videotaped, and fingerprinted. Military police will be allowed to perform their duties in civilian clothing at the discretion of the command.