Armed Gang Tie Up Couple In Banbridge

A couple, aged in their 30s, were tied up by a masked gang, believed to have been armed with guns, who stole their car and made off with a sum of money.

The incident occurred at a house in Chinauley Park in Banbridge at around 8.30pm on Monday, 03 October.

Three men confronted the victims after they answered the door of their home. The gang tied them up, demanded money and ransacked the house.

They made off in a white Mercedes CLA 45.

The couple were not injured, however they were left "shocked", according to the police.

A PSNI spokesperson said: "One male is described as being aged in his mid-30s or early 40s, of medium build and height and with dark brown stubble.

"The second male is described as being approximately 6’ tall and well built. The third male is described as being approximately 5’5” tall and of slim build.

"Detectives are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or anyone with any information about the location of the white Mercedes car to contact detectives in Lurgan on 101 quoting reference number 1312 of 03/10/16."

Upper Bann MLA Jo-Anne Dobson said: "I understand the criminals, who came armed with a sawn-off shotgun, then used cable ties to bind the couple after which a considerable amount of money and the family car was stolen from them.

"I know the area well and have spoken with neighbours who are in shock at this ordeal. My thoughts are with this young couple today as they come to terms with this repulsive experience.

"I have spoken with senior PSNI officers and have been reassured that they are doing all they can to bring those responsible to justice including localised door to door investigation. I also appeal for anyone who may have seen their white Mercedes CLA 45, which is quite a rare model, to report this to the PSNI as a matter of urgency."

(CD)