Write a commentPolice investigating three burglaries that took place in Newry on Thursday are looking at a possible link between the incidents that took place in O'Neill Avenue, Barley Mews and The Glen between 5.30pm and 9pm on Thursday the 20th of November.
Detective Constable Gina Quinn explained: “Sometime between 6.15pm and 9pm on Thursday, 20 November, entry was forced to a house in The Glen, Newry. Entry was forced to the house and all rooms searched.
“We are investigating a possible link between this burglary and two others which occurred in O’Neill Avenue and Barley Mews around the same time.
“We would like to hear from anyone who has information in relation to any of these burglaries. We can be contacted in the CID Office in Ardmore Police Station on the 101 number.
“We would also like to remind the public to report any suspicious activity, particularly in the run up to Christmas. Always remember to lock and secure your home and keep an eye on your neighbourhood. If you see people or vehicles which look out of place or suspicious, phone us straight away on 101 or 999 in an emergency.”
Speaking about the O'Neill Avenue and Barley Mews incidents Sergeant Colin Massey explained: “We received reports of two burglaries on Thursday night into Friday morning. The first burglary occurred in Barley Mews. Entry was forced to a house between 5.30pm and 9pm on Thursday, 20 November. A bedroom was ransacked and, at this stage, we believe jewellery has been taken.
“In the second burglary entry was forced to a house in O’Neill Avenue. Cash was taken and the thief/thieves made off from the rear of the house. The dwelling was ransacked and a sum of cash taken.
“We would like to hear from anyone who has information in relation to either of these burglaries. We can be contacted on the 101 number.
“I would also like to remind the public to be vigilant of suspicious activity and keep an eye on their neighbourhood. If you notice people or vehicles that look out of place or appear suspicious please contact us straight away. We would much rather take the time to check out a report than miss the opportunity of preventing a crime.”
SDLP Newry Councillor Kevin McAteer has condemned the recent break ins in the O'Neill avenue area calling them a disgusting and insensitive act. McAteer said "It is terrible that this has happened particularly in the run up to Christmas. I am calling on all members of the community to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity in their area. Please lock up your house when necessary and be safe."
Newry Sinn Fein Councillor Valerie Harte said that in the O Neills Avenue incident a well known and respected family home was ransacked when the owner of the home was working.
Valerie who knows the victim well said "Those who carried this criminal act out last night have no place in this community. The cowards who robbed this mans house knew full well that he was at work at that time. I have no doubt that this close knit community will rally together to ensure that these activities are challenged and all possible done to ensure that those engaged in these burglaries will be apprehended and face the full rigours of the law. Anyone with any information should pass this on immediately to the police".
