Detectives in Newry are appealing for information and witnesses following two reported burglaries in the district on Friday, 31st May.

Detective Sergeant Lewis said: “Officers received a report that a burglary had taken place in the Ashfield Avenue area of Newry at some point between 9.00am and 12.50pm, when the resident was not present.

“Entry is believed to have been gained via a small window at the back of the property, and a number of items were subsequently stolen from the address.

“The second report related to a disturbed burglary in progress in the Sheetrim Road area of Cullyhanna at around 3.35pm.

“Three men forced entry to the property using screwdrivers before the homeowner returned. They made off from the scene empty-handed in a black Audi A5 coupe, which was later located in the Derrybeg area.

“One man, aged 22 years, was later arrested on suspicion of burglary with intent to steal. Following interview, he was released on bail to allow for further enquiries.”

Detective Sergeant Lewis continued: “Two families have been left distressed by intrusion into their homes. Although we do not believe at this stage that the burglaries are linked, we are following a number of lines of enquiry.

“We would appeal to anyone who was in the areas at the relevant times and noticed anything out of the ordinary to make contact with us on 101, quoting reference 779 of 31/05/24 for the Newry burglary, and 1185 of 31/05/24 for the Cullyhanna burglary.

“We would be especially keen to hear from anyone who may have dash-cam, CCTV or mobile footage of the area, or the suspect black Audi, that we could review.”

Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ 

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/