Pair Arrested Following NI Crime Spree

Two men have been arrested following a string of incidents, including burglary and attempted burglary, in counties Antrim and Down on Monday.

Police released details of a crime spree that began between 2pm and 5pm when a house in the Kiln Grove area of Larne was burgled. A grey-coloured Mercedes was reported stolen, along with a number of electronic items and a sum of money.

Meanwhile, a hit-and-run traffic collision reportedly occurred at around 3.45pm in the Pound Street area of the Co Antrim town. A Mercedes and a Volkswagen were involved in the crash near the junction of St. Johns Place.

Later on Monday, at around 6.35pm, an attempted burglary reportedly took place at a house on the Killyleagh Road in Downpatrick. A male occupant disturbed a man while he attempted to enter the house through a window.

Police were also informed of suspicious activity in the Downpatrick area, with two males seen running through a field.

The pair, both in their twenties, were arrested later on Monday evening.

Detective Sergeant Emma Wallace said: "The Mercedes car that was reported stolen was later discovered, having been set alight, on the Killyleagh Road. NIFRS attended the scene.

"Following a search operation, officers subsequently arrested two men matching the description of the two males seen running through the field."

The males, both aged 22, were arrested on suspicion of a range of offences, including aggravated vehicle taking causing damage to the vehicle, burglary, attempted burglary, assault on police and resisting police.

Both men remain in custody this afternoon, Tuesday 08 October, assisting police with enquiries.

Anyone who was in the Larne and Downpatrick areas around the times mentioned, or has information relevant to the investigation, is urged to contact police on 101, quoting reference 1543 of 07/10/19.

Details can also be provided in confidence by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.



(JG/CM)