militarypolice

Military police are service members or a dedicated branch responsible for enforcing military law and maintaining order within the armed forces. Their duties typically cover policing personnel, securing facilities, and providing protection to military operations and property. Jurisdiction and authority vary by country and by mission; in peacetime they primarily police bases and deployments, while in wartime they may perform battlefield policing, crowd control, and detention operations.

Common tasks include criminal investigations, traffic control, security for dignitaries and important sites, force protection, and detention and custody of detainees. Some MP units oversee traffic safety, anti-terrorism measures, and investigations into crimes involving service members. MPs often carry weapons and wear distinctive insignia, with training that emphasizes military law, self-defense, and procedures for lawful arrest and detention.

Organizational forms differ. In many countries, the military police are a corps within the army (for example, the United States Army Military Police Corps) or a service branch (as in the British Royal Military Police). Other states organize a gendarmerie or similar force, such as France’s Gendarmerie, which operates under the interior ministry and has military status. In some nations, MPs may operate alongside civilian police under a unified command during certain operations.

Status and accountability are governed by military law and international humanitarian law, with oversight by military justice systems and, in some cases, civilian courts. Training emphasizes legal authorities, human rights, and appropriate use of force.