Police in east Belfast have arrested a 40-year-old man following an attempted burglary in the early hours of this morning, Sunday, 24th August.

Sergeant Todd said: “We received a report at around 2.25am, where a resident had disturbed a man attempting to burgle their property in the Burghley Mews area.

“The caller had heard a loud noise outside the property and gone downstairs, where they saw a man reaching his arm through an open window and taking a gold-coloured knife from the windowsill. The suspect then used the knife to try and gain access to the property through the front door.

“Officers arrived at the scene a few minutes after the resident’s call and were given a description of the man. He was subsequently located nearby, with the knife seized by police.

“The man was arrested on suspicion of burglary and possessing an offensive weapon in a public place. He remains in police custody at this time.”

Enquiries are continuing and anyone with any information can contact police on 101, quoting reference number 199 of 24/08/25. A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport. Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

You can report any suspicious activity in your area via the 101 number, at psni.police.uk/report, or via 999 in an emergency. 

For more information on home security, please visit psni.police.uk/safety-and-support/keeping-safe/protecting-your-home.