Use of special means: activities of the new military police

The project for the professional standard “Military Policeman,” developed by the Main Directorate of the Law and Order Service of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, received approval from the public and military trade unions. It is expected that its approval will take place soon, after which military police officers will be able to appear on the streets of cities and villages.

The primary purpose of this new structure is to ensure law and order among military personnel. It is envisaged to create a patrol service, mobile groups, security departments to hold detainees, and a disciplinary battalion. Military inspectors will work separately to monitor road traffic safety and check army transport.

Military police will have the power to check documents, control the wearing of uniforms, conduct searches, seize dangerous objects, detain offenders, and draw up administrative reports. They will also be allowed to use physical force, special means, and firearms.

Weapons that military police can use include handcuffs, batons, gas grenades, tasers, non-lethal munitions, and vehicles to stop vehicles. If necessary, the use of assault rifles and pistols is allowed, and the decision to use force remains with the police.

In addition to patrolling, the military police will also search for and detain service members who have left their units without permission or are hiding from the investigation. This activity will be carried out jointly with the National Police and territorial recruitment centers. The military police will also be responsible for searching for lost weapons and ammunition, as well as for monitoring the technical condition of military equipment.