b. Checkpoints.
A team organized to operate a checkpoint has a team
leader to provide leadership and monitor communications.
One MP provides
overwatch security.
The third team member checks vehicles and people.
A
checkpoint positioned at a heavily traveled location may require two or more
teams.
It should also be noted, particularly when engaged in the
suppression of illegal activities, that great care and caution must be used.
The individual providing security must be alert not only for enemy activity,
but for the dangers associated with law enforcement activity as well.
The placement of a checkpoint is based on the main purpose of the
checkpoint. When the purpose is to check convoys for authorization to use
the route, the checkpoint is positioned at the entrance to the controlled
route. The MP team sets up a holding area where convoys can pull off the
road to get information, or to wait for route clearance without delaying
other traffic. Cover and concealment are provided for the checkpoint team.
The team chooses good fields of fire for the automatic weapon overlooking
the checkpoint.
When a checkpoint is set up to
check cargo, or to spot-check vehicle
traffic, it is not usually placed at
the entrance to a controlled route.
This type of checkpoint should not be
seen by drivers until it is too late
for them to do anything other than
approach the checkpoint.
The team
chooses a location just over a hill or
around a curve.
A checkpoint can be placed anywhere along a route that offers the
site considerations needed to achieve its purpose.
The team digs their
automatic weapon into a fighting position and parks their vehicle in a
covered and concealed location.
A checkpoint may require special equipment.
The MP may use a
roadblock to stop traffic. They can use wire, vehicles, a gate, or other
obstacles as a roadblock to make sure traffic stops.
Drums (55 gallon)
filled with rocks, soil, or water are effective. The checkpoint should be
well marked with traffic cones and signs. Any necessary instructions should
be posted on the signs. A pursuit vehicle should be available to pursue any
vehicles or persons who fail to stop, turn around, or otherwise try to avoid
the checkpoint. Figure 3-1 illustrates a combined checkpoint and roadblock.
4.
Security.
The security of the operation is crucial to the continued and safe
conduct of traffic control activities.
You must not only consider the
threat from the enemy, but that from blackmarketeers and other criminals as
well. They can be just as deadly as the enemy. It means that the security
problem is compounded. The MP performing traffic control and/or inspecting
vehicles is particularly vulnerable to both threats. The primary function
of the other team members is to provide alert, careful protection for him.
The factors to be considered in the security of any of these operations
are the same as those already discussed in this subcourse.
All of the
factors of METT-T must be considered, as well as the requirements of OPSEC.
Examination of these factors will determine if additional weaponry is
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MP1029
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