An east Belfast family was left terrified after burglars marched three adult children down from their bedrooms and shut them in the living room while they ransacked the house.
The elderly father was kept in the living room while two women in their 50s and a man in his 60s were brought downstairs from their bedrooms.
They were all made to stay in the one room, while the burglars - one carrying a screwdriver - went through the house.
Detectives are appealing for witnesses following the burglary at the house in the Dunraven Avenue area of east Belfast last night, Tuesday 9 January.
Detective Sergeant Keith Wilson said: “Around 8.30pm, four men forced their way into a house and ransacked it. An older man and his three adult children were in the property at the time.
“While the family weren’t physically injured in the incident, they were left in shock. The men left the house with a sum of money.
“All four men are described as being in their 20s. One of them was 6’ tall and wore a black coat and jeans. He also had a black scarf over his face and a green, army-style baseball cap with a flat peak. He wore black gloves and was carrying a long, yellow-handled screwdriver.
“We would like to hear from anyone who has any information that could help with our investigation or who saw suspicious activity in the area. Please get in touch with police on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 1203 of 9/1/18."
“Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”
Meanwhile, substantial damage has been caused to three businesses targeted by thieves in Co Antrim.
Police, who have appealed for information, believe the burglaries at commercial premises at the Old Town Bank in Church Street in Ballymoney are all linked.
A PSNI spokesman said it is believed the break-ins happened some time between Monday at 6pm and Tuesday at 9am.
Among the items stolen were boxed GHD hair appliances and a large amount of designer children’s clothes, including premature baby clothing.
Substantial damage was also caused to all three premises.
