Police in west Belfast have arrested a 23-year-old man following a report of a burglary at residential premises in Dunmurry in the early hours of Wednesday, 20th December. 

Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Róisín Brown said: “Police received a report of an ongoing burglary in the Brooklands Grange area at around 3.25am.

"Two women aged in their 60s were present in the property. One of the women was in the living room when a man unknown to her opened the unlocked front door and walked in. He confronted the woman before picking up an antique item and leaving the property.

"Police promptly arrived at the address and located a man matching the description provided in the Pembrooke Loop Road area. He was arrested on suspicion of burglary and has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.

“It is not believed that anything else was stolen and no damage was caused to the property; however, whilst physically unharmed this was an extremely distressing and frightening experience for the victims in their own home.

"Our enquiries are continuing to establish the circumstances around this burglary and we are keen to locate a second man dressed in dark clothing who we believe may have been involved. 

“We would appeal to anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the area, or who may have relevant doorbell or CCTV footage, to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 145 of 20/12/23.”

Inspector Brown continued: "Burglary is an extremely invasive and personal crime. Everyone has the right to feel safe and protected in their own home. I would encourage people to ensure that your windows and doors are closed and locked, particularly in the dark evenings and around the holiday period. Please also check on your friends and neighbours. Police will be highly visible across the city during the festive period. If you have any concerns or wish to report suspicious activity please contact us via 101.

You can also use the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport, or information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 / online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org”