Man With 'Sharp Object' Linked To South Belfast Armed Robberies

Police are appealing for information after reports of two armed robberies in south Belfast.

Both incidents took place on the evening of Tuesday 12 February.

Shortly after 7.20pm police were contacted with reports of a man wearing a scarf around his face and armed with a sharp object who entered a shop in Botanic Avenue.

The man threatened a male employee but left the shop and fled from the area after the staff member refused to hand over any money.

Officers are probing a possible link to this incident and a report of an armed robbery at a business premises on the Dublin Road only 30 minutes later.

It was reported that a man with a scarf around his face entered a shop armed with a sharp object and made off with a sum of money in the direction of Stranmillis.

The suspect believed to have been involved in both incidents is described as of slim build, wearing a dark hat, a navy hooded jumper with yellow writing, yellow stripes on the sleeve and dark navy tracksuit bottoms. 

Detective Sergeant Colan appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

"Enquiries are continuing and we would appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious at either locations at the time of the incidents to contact detectives on 101, quoting reference number 1203 12/2/19," he said.

"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."



(JG/CM)