The struggle against saboteurs and political banditry in the Tambov region during the Great Patriotic War (1941–1945)

During the Great Patriotic War (1941–1945), a struggle was waged not only on the front lines against German fascist forces and their allies, but also within the country against saboteurs and political groups who sought to undermine the country’s stability and facilitate the triumph of fascism. The purpose of this study is to examine the efforts of Tambov law enforcement agencies in combating the domestic enemy, who sought to prevent the Soviet people from overcoming the Nazi invaders. This research is based on the application of general scientific methods of investigation, such as analysis, synthesis, induction, and deduction. The methodological basis for the research is based on the principles of objectivity and historicism. The study concludes that the enemy aimed to achieve victory over the Soviet Union, including through the activities of saboteurs and political groups, which were composed of deserters, criminals, and individuals dissatisfied with Soviet rule and seeking to defect to the opposing side. The German military intelligence service (Abwehr) was involved in organizing the training and support of sabotage groups and political factions in order to instill fear and panic among civilians. These sabotage groups and factions were tasked with carrying out acts of terror-ism, robbery, murder, as well as spreading rumors and false information about the imminent defeat of Soviet forces and the benefits of living under German occupation. The law enforcement agencies in the Tambov region have managed to prevent the destructive activities of the “domestic enemy” and have made a significant contribution to the victory of the Soviet people in the fight against fascism during the 1941–1945. The practical findings of this study can be used to develop methods for countering attempts to destabilize Russia.