....or is it to gain control, information?
How many stopped that were sent on their way with, say 30 minute delay...unconstitunal?
i'm sure that's a priority too. along with maintaining an authoritative status, while reinforcing the subject-nature of the people.
i wonder, if there were checkpoints every day, in every city, in a few different places, would people become tired of submitting to these "papers, please" checks?