19/01/2006

Pensioners attacked by robbers

Police in Londonderry have appealed for witnesses following the mugging of a pensioner at around 9pm last night.

The woman, who is in her 70's, was walking along the Aileach Road, when she had her handbag snatched by two men.

The woman suffered shock but was otherwise injured during the incident.

Meanwhile, in Belfast, a woman in her 90's was held captive in her bed while four men ransacked her home.

The elderly woman was wakened at around 10.40pm by the men who entered the bedroom of her house in the Willowhome area of the city.

One of the robbers held the woman down by her head while the others raided the property.

The woman was uninjured during the ordeal but is said to be in a state of shock.

Police in both Londonderry and Belfast have appealed for information on either attack and have asked for witnesses to contact them on 0845 600 8000, or on the Crimestoppers number on 0800 555 111.

Earlier this week, three homes of elderly people in Lisburn, Tandragee and Lurgan were robbed.

(EF/SP)

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