AN ELDERLY MAN was injured during a robbery at his house in Graymount Drive, Newtownabbey, Belfast last night.
Shortly before 7.30pm, the elderly homeowner heard a knock at his door. When he opened it, an unknown male pushed past him knocking him to the ground.
A second man then entered the house and placed his hand over the victim’s mouth.
The first raider made his way into the living room before making off with an empty cardboard box.
Descriptions
A third gang member remained outside the house during the incident. One of the men is described as being of medium build and having a local accent and “swarthy skin”. He was wearing dark clothing and a woollen hat.
The second assailant is described as being approximately 6’ tall and of medium build with short dark hair.
The elderly man sustained a graze to his elbow. His sister, who was also in the house at the time, was not injured.
It is believed the suspects may have arrived in the area in an old type silver Vauxhall Vectra car driven by a fourth man. This car was seen making off in the direction of Grays Lane.
The police believe the incident is linked to an attempted robbery that occurred earlier in the evening where the home of an elderly woman was targeted.
At around 7.05pm the elderly female occupant of a house in the Lawnview Street area answered a knock to her door.
Similar scenario
When she opened the door an unknown man pushed past her knocking her to the ground. He then made off empty handed when she began shouting. He is described as being aged in his 20s and clean shaven.
He was wearing a black woollen hat, dark clothing and gloves. The lady was not injured but left badly shaken by her ordeal.
Detectives are investigating a link between these incidents and Detective Sergeant Keith Wilson is appealing for anyone with any information that can assist with the investigation to contact Detectives at Musgrave Police Station on the non-emergency number 101.
Information can also be passed anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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