Northern Ireland

Man arrested after three burglary incidents in same area of Co Armagh town

Police are investigating two burglaries and an attempted burglary in Portadown
Police are investigating two burglaries and an attempted burglary in Portadown Police are investigating two burglaries and an attempted burglary in Portadown

A MAN has been arrested following three burglary incidents in a Co Armagh town in the early hours of yesterday morning.

Police believe the crimes, which took place in the same area of Portadown and included the theft of an Audi car, are linked.

In the first, two men attempted to force their way into a house in Bachelors Walk around 3.15am but fled when they were disturbed by the homeowner.

Fifteen minutes later, a silver Audi A3 was stolen in a creeper-style burglary from a house in nearby Margretta Park after entry was forced to the property.

Police said none of the occupants, including two people in their 80s, were injured but all were left badly shaken.

The car was later recovered intact.

While attending the second incident, police recovered a bicycle which is believed to have been taken from a house in Killycomain Road. A second bicycle was also reported stolen from the same property.

Police have arrested a 27-year-old man on suspicion of offences including burglary and attempted burglary, theft of a vehicle and possession of a Class B controlled drug.

Detective Sergeant Foley said: "One of the suspects is reported to have worn a scarf which was pulled over his face, with his hood up. The second suspect is reported to have worn what was described as a dark-coloured coat and had his face covered with a scarf.

“We believe, at this time, these three reports are linked, and would appeal to anyone who has information about any of these crimes to get in touch."

The number to ring is 101, quoting reference numbers 129 08/01/19 and 117 08/01/19 or phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.