Burglary Suspects Held In PSNI Crack-down

There have been a series of arrests in relation to robberies across north Belfast. A 25-year-old man was arrested after a number of offences, including a creeper style burglary at residential premises at the Forthriver Parade area on Sunday, 4th December.

It is believed that two sets of car keys were taken during the incident. A car at the property was not stolen.

It is believed that the male was involved in a number of burglaries in the Glencairn Way and Fernhill Heights areas on Sunday, 4th December. It is believed that a number of items were taken during the incidents. All the items stolen have been returned to their owners.

The male was arrested at a house in the Bleach Green Terrace a short time afterwards in relation to the offences. The man is currently helping police with their enquiries.

Meanwhile, four men aged 17, 18, 19 and 23 have been arrested in relation to a robbery at business premises at the Manor Street, North Belfast area on the morning of Sunday, 4th December.

At around 11.20am, it was reported that two males entered a shop in the area with one man armed with a knife. It is believed that a mobile phone and a quantity of cigarettes were taken during the incident. It is believed a female member of staff was threatened during the incident and was left badly shaken.

The quantity of cigarettes and the mobile phone were recovered a short time later by police.

Two males aged 23 and 17 were arrested at a house in the area on suspicion of robbery.

Two other males aged 18 and 19 were arrested in the same property on suspicion of criminal damage and outstanding money warrants. All four males are currently helping police with their enquiries.

The PSNI North Belfast Area Commander Chief Inspector Andrew Freeburn said: "As the festive season gets underway, there is an increase in the number of residential premises being targeted by criminals.

"It is important that both home owners and businesses take the necessary precautions in making their homes and businesses safe.

"Police, along with the support of the local community are determined to make this a safe and peaceful Christmas for the people of North Belfast and a very unpleasant festive period for those intent in criminal activities," he said.

(BMcC/GK)