Police Appeal After Aggravated Burglary in Ballynahinch

Detectives are appealing for information following a report of serious assault and aggravated burglary at the Windmill Gardens area of Ballynahinch this morning (Monday 16th March).

Detective Constable Slevin said: “Shortly after 2:35am, it was reported that three masked men forced their way into a flat in the area and assaulted three males inside the property. The masked men were reportedly armed with a hammer and a knife during the incident.

“Two of the males leapt out of the flat, with one man aged in his 20s receiving a suspected broken leg and the other male aged in his 30s receiving a suspected broken ankle during the incident. Both males were taken to hospital for treatment to their injuries. The third male aged in his 20s who was assaulted remained inside the property and received injuries that are not believed to be life threatening. It was reported that a number of vehicles left the area following the assault.

“Enquiries are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and we are following a number of lines of enquiry at this stage.

“We would appeal to anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the area at the time of the incident to contact detectives on 101, quoting reference number 133 16/03/20.

“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.”