Elderly pensioner beaten with spade during aggravated burglary
The man, in his late 70s, was beaten with a spade by the intruder as he tried to defend himself.
Last updated 17th Jan 2018
An elderly pensioners has been left severely bruised after an aggravated burglary in Moria.
The man, in his late 70s, was attacked with spades as the tried to defend himself from the intruder.
Ulster Unionist Councillor, Paul Michael, described the attack in the Glenavy area, as sickening.
Councillor Michael said:
“I visited the home of the elderly gentleman this morning and was absolutely sickened by the aftermath of this attack. The man who is in his late seventies is severely bruised from trying to defend himself against the intruder who struck him several times with a spade during the attempted robbery.
“It is extremely important that we keep a check on our elderly neighbours during these times when they can be more vulnerable. I would also appeal to the PSNI to increase their patrols of rural areas, especially in these colder periods when the elderly can become more isolated in their homes.
“It is deeply disturbing that there are people in our community who are capable of such a horrific assault on a pensioner. I met with the PSNI at the man’s home and I would appeal to anyone with any information to come forward to the police immediately. Any information can be passed on via the non-emergency 101 number, quoting reference 49 17/01/18 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Police are appealing for witnesses.
Constable Higgins said; “It was reported that shortly before midnight last night, Tuesday, 16 January an unknown male entered a house in the Moira Road. Once inside the property the male occupant was assaulted. He sustained injuries which are not believed to be life threatening.
The intruder, who is believed to have been wearing a balaclava, fled the scene after stealing a small sum of cash and alcohol. He fled the scene on what has been described as a motorcycle.
“I would appeal to anyone who noticed any suspicious persons or vehicles in the area to contact Detectives at Antrim Criminal Investigation Branch on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 49 17/01/18. Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.