Three Men Attack Disabled Elderly Bessbrook Man in his Home

An elderly man has been treated in hospital following an aggravated burglary in Bessbrook in the early hours of this morning.

Detectives are appealing for information following the incident that occurred in the Clogharevan Park area.

Detective Inspector Harry Colgan said: "At approximately 2.40am Police received a report that three men had broken into a house and entered a bedroom where the elderly, disabled male occupant of the house was in bed. They then proceeded to assault him with a sharp implement. He received several wounds to his body as a result of this assault. 

“He has been taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries.

"It is believed that a sum of money was stolen.

"I would appeal to anyone who may have noticed any suspicious activity in the area or who has any information to contact Detectives at Newry on the non-emergency number 101. Or, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111."

Cllr Kate Loughran an SDLP Councillor for the Slieve Gullion area has expressed her disgust at the incident. Commenting Cllr Loughran said “I am disgusted and repulsed to hear of an older member of our community being attacked in his own bed in his own home. This type of behaviour is totally unacceptable in any society and I hope that the person or persons responsible will be brought before the law without delay.

The community in Bessbrook is stunned by the attack on this man, who suffered very serious injuries. I want to join with them in wishing him a speedy recovery and I would very much urge anyone who has any information that would help the police to apprehend whoever is responsible for this heinous crime to come forward to the PSNI without any delay whatsoever."