President Salva Kiir has ordered the National Police Service to shoot any criminal resisting arrest.

The President says several crimes within urban centers are committed by criminals riding boda-boda motorcycles, who often snatch women’s bags and people’s valuables.

He said the police is authorized to shoot anyone that tries to escape arrest.

“Some of you were awarded for being good at shooting. I now authorize you to shoot any criminal snatching women’s handbags,” Kiir said.

President Kiir also instructed the police to arrest anyone driving a numberless vehicle. He said such cars are used to conduct crimes.

He promised the newly graduate a promotion in the police force, if any manages to shoot a genuine criminal.

President Salva Kiir was speaking during the graduation of newly trained police recruit at Juba Stadium on Thursday.