North Belfast couple robbed at knifepoint

Police in north Belfast have appealed for information following an armed robbery in the early hours of this morning.

Shortly after midnight, a man arrived home to his flat in the Cliftonville Avenue area of the city, and as he entered the property, was confronted by two males.

One of the males held a knife to the man's throat, and forced him inside the flat, where his wife and 18-month-old daughter were waiting.

The robbers then forced the couple, aged 32 and 29-years-old, into a car, and drove them to a cash machine on the Antrim Road, while the baby was left alone at home.

The couple were ordered to withdraw an undisclosed sum of money, and were then taken back to their flat.

The assailants made off in a silver coloured Renault Megane, which was later found burnt out in the Brighton Street area of west Belfast.

The first thief, who was armed with a knife, is described as being around 6 feet tall, of medium build and was wearing a Nike coat and a stripy beanie cap.

The second robber is said to be around 5'8, and was wearing a a t-shirt with horizontal blue stripes, grey trousers and a black balaclava.

Anyone who may have witnessed anything in connection with the incident, are asked to contact police on 0845 600 8000 or anonymously on the Crimestoppers number on 0800 555 111.

(EF/KMcA)