The Militia, who the h**l are they?

Question

In the recent skirmish in Gorgia, as the Russians moved out of the villages, the `Militia` moved in burning houses, attacking and raping the villagers, and looting.

Who are these undisciplined bandits who seem to have no leader and who seem to be able to do what they want - are they just opportunist thugs taking advantage of the turmoil and situation? They seem to pop-up in every troublespot and come from nowhere.

If they are, why are they tagged with this semi-respectable word - why are they not just called thug-opportunists or something such.

Answer 1

You said it, they are just opportunist thugs. With the removal of law and order you'll be surprised at what vile animals the seemingly respectable everyday people can turn into only to vanish again once discipline is restored.  

Answer 2

They are the unofficial armies of sth Osettia and the other enclave seeking revenge for the destruction caused. So although they act like bandits, they are legitimate militia

Answer 3

"the `Militia` moved in burning houses, attacking and raping the villagers, and looting."

First there is no independent confirmation, and so far anything that has come out from both sides has been gross exaggeration.

The Georgians have left S.O., and Gori which is occupied by Russians is virtually empty. So in other words it's just one of those hysteric myths and fabrications.

These are S.O. militia's. The people Georgia attacked. They seem to be plundering anything Georgians have left. There were cases of them getting revenge but not sure yet.

Answer 4

I think you have answered your own question that's exactly what they are opportunistic thugs taking full advantage of the situation.

There will always be these types popping up in all trouble spots the world over,it is sadly the nastier side of human nature.  

Answer 5

Each region has loosely organized armies with little or no leadership.  They are thugs and opportunists preying on their own people and it is quite revolting.  

The U.S. not different - they are called gangs.