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Alleged car thief accused of breaking into two west Belfast houses

The 16-year-old youth, who cannot be identified, was arrested in connection with raids on properties in the Blacks Road and Hannahstown areas on Monday
The 16-year-old youth, who cannot be identified, was arrested in connection with raids on properties in the Blacks Road and Hannahstown areas on Monday The 16-year-old youth, who cannot be identified, was arrested in connection with raids on properties in the Blacks Road and Hannahstown areas on Monday

AN alleged teenage car thief was remanded in custody torday accused of breaking into two houses in west Belfast.

The 16-year-old youth, who cannot be identified, was arrested in connection with raids on properties in the Blacks Road and Hannahstown areas on Monday.

He appeared before Belfast Magistrates' Court charged with two counts of burglary and stealing a Skoda Fabia from one homeowner.

The teenager is alleged to have taken the woman's car keys, along with £450 cash, an iPad and mobile phone.

He is also accused of lifting tablets and a photograph from the house on Blacks Road.

A second alleged burglary was carried out the same day at Spruce Hill in the city.

It is claimed that the youth stole a hammer, set of keys, another mobile phone and two watches.

Asked if he understood the charges, the youth replied: "Yes."

No bail application was made due to an issue about the availability of a possible address.

Instead, District Judge Fiona Bagnall remanded the accused in custody to appear again by video link on Friday.