Aggravated burglary investigated in County Down

Police are appealing for information following the report of an aggravated burglary in County Down in which a man in his 70s was assaulted.

It happened sometime around 3 o'clock on Monday morning (January 22nd). It was reported to the PSNI a number of men gained entry to a house on the Belfast Road, Ballynahinch, via the rear of the property.

A PSNI spokesperson said: It was reported that a man in his 70s was upstairs at the time of the incident and when he came downstairs, he was assaulted by one of the men.

"He was struck on the face by the landline phone as he attempted to reach for it during the incident. The property was ransacked, but it is not clear if anything was taken."

The spokesperson added the PSNI is keen to speak to anyone with information.

“Enquiries are continuing and we would appeal if anyone saw anything suspicious in the area at the time of the incident, which may be able to assist with the investigation to contact detectives on 101 quoting reference number 293 22/01/24.

"You can also submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.

"Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”