A BORDER village in Co Tyrone has been left shocked after a man was beaten in his home by masked men wielding wooden posts.
Police have launched an investigation following the incident in Clady that left the man in his 30s with a broken arm.
Detectives described the violent attack at the house in Cluney Gardens, close to the Donegal border, as an aggravated burglary.
They said the two assailants reportedly entered the property just before 8pm, attacking the occupant with posts, leaving him a broken limb as well as severe cuts and bruising.
It took place as crowds of people were dispersing nearby after a community event to switch on the village’s Christmas lights.
SDLP councillor Steven Edwards, who attended the Christmas lights switch-on in Clady on Friday evening said the incident had left local people shocked.
“This attack in Clady is totally shocking and will not be tolerated by the local community,” he said.
“When the community were coming together to turn on their Christmas lights little did we know there was an assault and burglary happening not too far away.
“My thoughts are with the victim and I wish them a speedy recovery.
“I would encourage anyone who may have witnessed it to speak to the police so those responsible can be apprehended.”
Detectives have appealed for anyone who noticed any suspicious activity in the area, or who has any information which could help with the investigation, to call them at Strand Road police station in Derry on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 1686 02/12/22.