Man in 80s whose partner died last week ‘pinned to bed’ during aggravated burglary

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During the incident, which is reported to have happened at 7pm, two men forced entry to a house in Granville Gardens.

Police say the occupant, a man aged in his eighties, was upstairs when the two suspects entered his bedroom.

Police add that one of the suspects is described as being of a heavy build; the other of a thin build.

The PSNI statement adds that the heavier of the two pinned the victim on his bed and, as he tried to defend himself, the victim was injured in a struggle, sustaining cuts to his arm.

The suspects made off with the victim’s wallet, gardening equipment and two phones.

The victim was taken to hospital following the attack.

Detective Sergeant James Johnston said: “This was a nasty, despicable attack on the victim. The suspects chose to attack a vulnerable man and subjected him to a horrendous ordeal. It must have been terrifying for him.

“I’m appealing to anyone who knows any information about this disgusting crime to get in touch with our detectives in Lurgan on 101, and quote reference number 1584 of 20/02/21.”

A report can also be submitted via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

In a comment on social media from DUP representatives Carla Condell Lockhart, Paul Greenfield and Junior McCrum they say that “two bad animals decided to break into a house of a lady who sadly passed away just last week”.

“They ripped out the kitchen window, ransacked the house and physically assaulted an 88 year old man in the house.

“They held him down in his bed as they ransacked the house and made off with some valuables.

“The family of the deceased lady and her partner, the gentleman who was attacked are shocked, devastated and angry that two men would carry out such a brutal attack and robbery.

“Anyone with any information or noticed anything suspicious in the area PLEASE contact the Police Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon on 101.

“These individuals need to face the full force of the law!”