Two Burglaries In Craigavon And Belfast May Be Linked

Detectives investigating burglaries in Craigavon and Belfast are exploring the possibility they may be connected.

Police are appealing for information after two burglaries occurred on Tuesday evening, 14th January.

The first incident was reported at approximately 6.20pm in the Gracefield Lodge area of Craigavon. Entry was gained to the house via a rear door which had been smashed, and a number of rooms were subsequently ransacked.

A short time later, at around 7.45pm, police received another report of a burglary at a house in the Shore Road area of north Belfast. Entry was gained through the front door, and areas of the property were also ransacked.

Three masked men were observed leaving the Belfast property. They are all described as being of slim build, and wearing dark-coloured clothing. They then left the scene in a dark-coloured SUV type vehicle.

Police believe this vehicle may be potentially connected to the earlier burglary in Craigavon.

Detective Sergeant Stewart said: "Both of these properties were vacant when the burglaries occurred, and we would encourage homeowners to make security a central part of the daily routine. Please do not keep large amounts of money at home or carry it on your person. "Thieves have been known to employ a number of tactics to establish the routines and habits of business owners, such as following them to and from their home, place of business, wholesalers or suppliers, and even determining the frequency of trips to the bank to determine if cash deposits from the business are being kept in the home.

"Conduct regular security checks of your home and business - are doors and windows secure, is there an alarm or other security system fitted and working? If you don't have CCTV or a doorbell camera, consider installing one. Invest in a dash-cam.

"Most importantly, if you see anything or anyone suspicious, or have any concerns that your business may be a target, contact police right away.

"Our enquiries are continuing today into both of these reports and we are especially keen to hear from anyone who may have CCTV, dash-cam or other footage of these areas. Please phone us on 101, quoting reference numbers 1486 and 1319 14/01/25."

A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport

Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org