“I don’t consider myself a star or a celebrity”: police sergeant Irina Bodrova told how she distributed masks to those who disagree

On the evening of July 1, a spontaneous rally of opponents of amendments to the Constitution of Russia began to gather on Pushkin Square. In addition to the protesters, there were many journalists who were clearly waiting for bright shots of dispersal of dissent. Suddenly, a policewoman appeared in the crowd - she politely offered the audience masks and urged her to protect herself and her loved ones.

A video with her participation instantly scattered in social networks and made the girl famous.

It turned out that the heroine's name is Irina Bodrova. She is a senior police sergeant who serves in the second operational regiment. Irina spoke about her service and herself in an exclusive interview with RT.

 - Irina, you became a star of social networks. The video where you distribute masks on Pushkin Square made a splash. How do you feel about such a reaction and do you feel like a celebrity?

 - I don’t feel like a star or a celebrity. We serve every day, this is our job. We communicate with citizens daily. Therefore, no, I repeat, I don’t feel famous myself.

 - How did your relatives and friends react to the unexpected fame?

 - I was shocked, my relatives too. The next day, when I woke up, there were calls and messages from friends. For everyone, as for me, this also came as a complete surprise.

 - The decision to distribute masks to people in the square is your personal initiative? 

- It was a very normal working day. They joined the service very early. Every time we are carefully prepared, instructed. Then they issue special equipment: body armor, a DVR, etc. After preparation, we received weapons and went to the duty station. Now we are still required to wear masks and gloves. When we arrived at the duty station, we saw that a lot of people on the street are without personal protective equipment. The regiment commander called me and offered to distribute masks and gloves to people. Fortunately, we have enough of them. I thought this was a great idea.

 - Tell us about yourself. How old are you? What finished? Is there a family?

 - I have been serving in the 2nd operational police regiment since 2014. I am 23 years old, I am a Muscovite. Graduated from a vocational training center. Now I am studying at the 5th year of the university at the Faculty of Law. Free time with my work is not enough, of course. But to me, as a versatile person, this does not bother me.

 - A policeman is still a male profession. Why did you decide to go to work for the police?

 “Why not?” I once thought and decided to try myself in this profession. Yes, the work is hard. There are many stereotypes that she is male, but in many departments there are now many girls. And we carry out our duties along with the guys. Yes, it can be difficult, but we can handle it. Not every girl can boast so.

 - What is the most important thing for you in the profession? What principles do you follow at work and in life?

 - The most important thing is to love your job. When this is not, then it is impossible to work. 

 - Are there any dreams and plans for the future?

- After studying it will be visible. Now the most important thing is to get a higher education. And it’s better to keep your dreams a secret: what if they don’t come true?