redarmylivinghistory

Hi - I'm new to the forum and find it very interesting. I'm an American searching for information on the Leningrad Militia as well as to a lesser extend Leningrad area NKVD, and how they conducted "day to day" operations during a "typical" day, if there was such a thing, in the post purge period, prior to the war. For example regarding the Militia- were there "precincts" across Leningrad as in an American city, how many and where, how were they organized, how did they go about arresting, booking and jailing an actual criminal prior to trial, and etc.

Just as importantly, during the war, what did they do, how did their responsibilities change, what changed regarding the system of justice (Food criminal trials for example) and so on. Of particular interest is the "anti-cannibalism" unit that was created during the depths of the siege in Dec, 41, Jan-Mar 42.

I've been trying to find solid English material on this, and there's very little to be found. Material on the Siege isn't exactly abundant, but what exists deals with either the fighting itself or the effect on Civilian populations. I'd be most grateful if anyone could point me to a resource on how Leningrad police forces worked through that most trying time.

You've come to the right place - one of the forum members is from Leningrad and has made a study of the Militia. Unfortunately, he's really busy at the moment but I'm sure he'll get back in touch when he's free.