Northern Ireland

Violent car theft attempt caught on camera

Members of the public confront two would be car thieves in south Belfast.
Members of the public confront two would be car thieves in south Belfast. Members of the public confront two would be car thieves in south Belfast.

DRAMATIC footage posted online shows a violent attempt to steal a car by two hooded men in south Belfast.

The car owner along with passers by and staff from a nearby restaurant, bravely confronted the two thieves after the car alarm was triggered.

The incident, which was recorded by an onlooker and posted to social media, took place in the Ireton Street area on Friday.

Shortly before 7.30pm, the owner of the vehicle saw two men attempting to steal his Honda Civic.

When confronted, one of the suspects swung a wheel lock at the man.

The car owner and a number of members of the public confronted the two thieves.
The car owner and a number of members of the public confronted the two thieves. The car owner and a number of members of the public confronted the two thieves.

Several people then also intervened to try to stop the pair, making off with the vehicle.

In the ensuing scuffle, a man sustained a cut to his hand believed to have been caused by a Stanley knife.

The would-be thieves then fled on foot in the direction of Wolseley Street where it is believed they may have got into a silver car, police said.

A 22-year-old was arrested on Sunday on suspicion of attempted robbery, taking and driving away, and possession of an offensive weapon.

SDLP Botanic councillor Gary McKeown said: "It is shocking that this violent attempt to steal a car happened in broad daylight, and I'm sure those involved in trying to stop the alleged assailants, and passers-by, were very upset.

"This area is popular with families, students and tourists, particularly at the time this incident took place.

"I urge anyone with information to share it with police."