The functions of the police in Eastern European countries are performed largely by both the "militia" (Militsiya) and the related "traffic police" called "GIBDD" (former"GAI"). The militia respond to emergencies, keep public order and do preliminary investigations of crimes. The GIBDD are traffic police and enforce traffic rules. The newly equipped and trained GIBDD on Nevskiy Prospekt are quite efficient.
The Militia and GIBDD both wear gray uniforms or dark blue with a beret and it takes a while to tell them apart. It is even more confusing as "special" militia units may wear camouflage. GIBDD vehicles are usually white with a blue stripe and flashing blue light. Militia vehicles also vary from yellow jeeps with a blue strip to an occasional brown jeep, brown military vehicle or bus.
There are dozens of militia stations throughout the city indicated by the sign: Otdelenie Militsii.
