Appeal for info after Ards and Bangor burglary spate

Three homes - one in Newtownards and two houses in Bangor - were victim to burglaries yesterday evening, Saturday October 5th.

The PSNI have issued a statement in a bid to encourage witnesses to the incidents to step forward, as they believe the burglaries could be linked.

A spokesperson said:"Detectives are appealing for witnesses following a report of 3 burglaries in Newtownards and Bangor areas last night, Saturday 05 October.

Shortly after 7.30pm it was reported that entry had been forced to a house in Aldergrange Avenue area of Newtownards. It is not yet know if anything was stolen during the incident.

"At around 8.50pm a woman, aged in her 80’s, was sitting in the living room of her home on Ballymaconnell Road South in Bangor when she was confronted by an unknown male.

The lady pushed the male out of the living room and observed a second male standing in the hallway. Both males made off through the front door. It is not believed that anything was taken during the incident.

"At around 9.30pm it was reported that two males had forced entry to a house on Killaire Road in Bangor. Nothing was reported to have been stolen during this incident.

"Police are investigating a possible link between all three burglaries and Detective Inspector Kelly is appealing for anyone who witnessed the incidents or anyone who noticed any strange vehicles in the area or any persons acting suspiciously or anything out of the ordinary last night to contact detectives in Bangor on 101 quoting reference 1656 05/10/19. 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.

"Police would want to take this opportunity to encourage everyone to report suspicious activity; no matter how insignificant it may seem. The report of a suspicious vehicle, or people acting strangely in your neighbourhood, can help police to prevent and detect crime.

"Please ensure all houses, sheds and garages are secured, particularly during the hours of darkness. Do not keep valuables or large amounts of cash in your home, and remember, safes are able to be removed. Do not leave any tools/ladders outside which can be used to access your property. Do not answer the door during the hours of darkness unless you are expecting someone or you have a security latch and can check identity first."