 Preparations to set up the Croatian National Guard ( <unk> <unk> garde – <unk> ) began on 12 April 1991 . Establishment of the <unk> as a police force with military capabilities was thought necessary by the Croatian authorities following armed clashes in <unk> and at <unk> Lakes in March and due to the possibility of further confrontation with the <unk> . The <unk> , formally established on 23 April , was tasked with protection of the constitutional order , maintenance of public order , anti @-@ terrorist operations , protection of Croatia 's borders , territory , coast and territorial waters , as well as the protection of high @-@ value structures and high @-@ profile persons . 
