Police have made an arrest in connection with a recent robbery in the south Belfast area.

Detective Sergeant McCartan said: “Officers received a report shortly after 6am on Tuesday, 16th January that a woman who was walking in the Elgin Street area had been approached by an unknown man.

“He asked for her phone and money and then threatened to hit her with a large metal bar which he had in his hand.

“The suspect, who is described as under 6 foot tall, of slim build and was wearing a red coat with his hood pulled up, and face completely covered, made off on foot with the woman’s items in the direction of Burmah Street.

“The woman, aged in her 30s, was unharmed, but left extremely shaken by what happened.

“A 26-year-old man was arrested today, Wednesday 17th January, on suspicion of robbery and possession of an offensive weapon with intent to commit an indictable offence.

“He remains in custody at this time, assisting with enquiries. The investigation is continuing and we are especially keen to hear from anyone noticed the suspect in the area around the time of the report to get in contact.

“Anyone with any information including dash-cam, mobile or CCTV footage of the area, or who may have witnessed suspicious activity shortly before 6am on Tuesday, 16th January can contact us on 101, quoting reference number 141 16/01/24.”

A report can also be made online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/

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