Police investigating daylight robbery of woman in her 90's charge a young woman

The elderly lady was pushed to the ground when it happened on Thursday

Castle Lane, Belfast Stock image
Author: Chloe StjohnPublished 14th Mar 2022

Police investigating the robbery of a woman in her 90’s in broad daylight in Belfast city centre have charged a woman in her 20's.

The elderly woman was knocked to the ground and had her handbag stolen when it happened on Thursday afternoon in the busy Castle Lane area.

The 26 year old suspect is due in court later charged with offences including grievous bodily harm.

PSNI Inspector Greg Dawson said: “This was a report of a particularly callous robbery of an elderly woman in our city centre during daylight hours.”

“This lady, who is aged in her 90s, had been in the Castle Lane area which was bustling with customers to its shops and cafes. But at around 4pm on Thursday (10th March), we received a report that she had become the victim of a frightening robbery.

“This lady was reportedly knocked to the ground by another woman and her handbag, which contained a sum of cash, stolen. The suspect then ran off with the stolen bag.”

"Members of the public who had witnessed the incident stopped and offered kindness to the pensioner who was understandably left shaken by this ordeal. Police and emergency services attended and she was taken to hospital where she continues to receive treatment for her injuries."

In an update today, a PSNI statement said, “Police have charged a 26-year-old woman with a number of offences including grievous bodily harm, robbery and theft.”

“She is expected to appear before Belfast Magistrates’ Court today (Monday 14th March).”

“As is usual procedure, all charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.”