Police appeal after series of Burglaries

A filling station on the Rathfriland Road in Hilltown has become the fourth local premises to be targeted by burglars in 48 hours.

Detectives in Newry are appealing for witnesses following the burglary at the station at Rathfriland Road, Hilltown today, Wednesday, 28 October. and three other break in's on the Dublin Road, Forkhill Road and Edward Street yesterday.

It was reported at approximately 12.30am this morning (Wed) that entry was forced into the premises and the cash register was stolen. It is believed that three males were seen in connection to the incident. A dark-coloured Mondeo was seen making off from the scene at speed towards Newry and a car matching a similar description was later found burnt out only a short distance from the scene.

Detective Sergeant Johnston is appealing to anyone who has any information to contact Police in Newry on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 53 of 28/10/20, or submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via HTTP://WWW.PSNI.POLICE.UK

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

Detectives are also appealing for information following three burglaries in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Two garages on the Forkhill Road and one on the Dublin Road were targeted, along with an office building at Edward Street, sometime between 2am and 7:15am, Tuesday 27 October. Entry was gained at each location and a number of items including vehicles, money and tobacco products have been reported stolen. 

Detective Inspector Darren Handley said: "We are at a very early stage of our investigation and I would appeal to anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity at Forkhill Road, Dublin Road or Edward Street or anyone with any information which could assist us with our enquiries to call detectives at Ardmore on 101, quoting reference 135 27/10/20" You can also submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via above website.

Speaking about the McKevitts burglary Cllr Gavin Malone said "I've spoken to staff who are very shocked and saddened but determined to get the shop opened as quickly as possible for the people....The people who done this have no Respect for anyone and this is an attack on our whole community. No doubt we will all stand together and support the McKevitt family and their wonderful staff."