The Military Police

The Military Police provide a variety of operational, law enforcement, investigative and security services at Bases and Units across Canada and throughout the world, wherever the Canadian Forces serve.

The approximately 1,200 members of the Military Police exercise jurisdiction within the Forces, and over Department of National Defence employees and visitors on DND property.

Military Police form an integral part of the military justice system in much the same way civilian police act within the civil and criminal justice system. They routinely train and work with their civilian counterparts in the provision of police and security services to the Canadian Forces and the Department of National Defence.

Members of the Military Police hold the title of "Specially Appointed Persons" and, as such, are awarded certain powers under the National Defence Act in order to fulfill their policing duties. For example, Military Police have the power to arrest, detain, and search.

The Criminal Code of Canada recognizes Military Police members as peace officers. They can arrest and lay charges for certain specific offences pursuant to the National Defence Act and the Criminal Code and lay charges in civilian criminal courts.

For additional information about the Military Police, please see the Canadian Forces Provost Marshal Web site.