Enemy Prisoner of War
Clearing Threats
References: Ranger Handbook TC 3-21.76 | Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad ATP 3-21.8
Overview
Enemy Prisoners of War (EPWs) are captured or surrendered enemy combatants While they may appear to be dead and thus do no harm, They might actually still be alive!
If not properly checked, OPFOR could get up and start shooting again, or chuck a grenade wiping out a portion of the platoon.
EPW search must be conducted BEFORE or concurrent with Aid & Litter to eliminate threats and collect intelligence.
Procedure
A squad should be assigned EPW duties prior to actions on.
THe EPW team will sweep the area and mark any bodies that have already been search (Crossing legs and arms)
You will need at least 2 people to check an EPW. Here is what you do.
On Objective (after assault to LOA):
- Mark Searched Bodies: Cross arms/legs or zip-tie wrists to indicate cleared (prevents duplicate searches).
- Approach Cautiously: Assume alive. One soldier covers; another kicks weapon away.
- Search:
- Roll body onto stomach (use boot or weapon to avoid traps).
- Thorough pat-down: pockets, helmet, boots, groin.
- Remove weapons, documents, equipment.
- Collect intelligence (maps, orders, IDs) — hand to PL.
- Live Captives:
- Flex-cuff hands behind back.
- Blindfold/goggles down if needed.
- Search thoroughly.
- Segregate and silence.
- Speed to collection point (rear of objective or CCP).
- Report: EPW team reports to SL/PSG (“Objective clear of threats, X EPWs, intel collected”).
Tips
- Prioritize threats — search “dead” enemies first.
- Be thorough but fast — time on objective is limited.
- Collect intel immediately — it degrades quickly.
- Treat humanely — no abuse (legal and moral).
- Rehearse with dummies or role-players.
What not to do
- Assume bodies are dead — always search.
- Search alone — risks ambush.
- Let EPWs talk — intelligence loss/security risk.
- Mishandle captives — violates law of war.
- Delay search — allows threats to revive.
Closing
Just make sure they are dead