Two pensioners suffer violent robberies

The attack on the woman took place in Aston Gardens in the Upper Newtownards Road area of east Belfast this afternoon, Monday 25 April.

The woman, who was in her nineties, was struck on the head with a stick and had her handbag stolen by a man at around 4pm. The woman has been taken to hospital for treatment.

The attacker was described as being aged in his sixties, of thin build, around 5’6” tall and was wearing a flat cap and rain jacket, possibly grey in colour.

Detective Inspector Nigel Snoddy has appealed for anyone who witnessed this incident or who has any information to contact detectives in Musgrave on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Detectives are also appealing for witnesses following a robbery in the Ballycormick Park area of Ballymoney on Saturday night, 23 April.

The 82-year-old man had just returned to his home around 11.30pm when two unknown males entered the property behind him. Following a short struggle the intruders tied him up with cable ties before making off with a laptop bag containing a number of CDs and personal items, including bank cards. The elderly gentleman was able to free himself and raise the alarm. He was then taken to hospital for treatment to injuries to his hands as a result of the incident.

Detective Sergeant Gallagher is appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or anyone with any information that can assist with the investigation to contact Detectives in Coleraine on 101. Information can also be passed anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.