The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is currently investigating a series of aggravated burglaries that rocked the Newry area on the night of Friday, September 13, 2024. Detective Sergeant Cargin of the Criminal Investigation Department has issued an urgent appeal for information regarding six linked incidents that took place between 7pm and 10.30pm.

The crime spree began in the Kennard Villas area, where three masked men armed with crowbars broke into a home, threatened the occupant, and stole three handbags. The police later discovered damage to another unoccupied property nearby.

In a particularly brazen incident in Carnagat Park, up to six masked men used a sledgehammer to enter a house through the front window. The occupant managed to chase the intruders, who fled in a dark-coloured Volkswagen Golf.

Further break-ins were reported in Beechmount Park, where cash and jewellery were stolen. In Patrick Street, three masked men armed with screwdrivers pushed past an occupant and stole cash and a phone. Another burglary occurred in the Carnagat Park area, rounding out the six reported incidents that spanned the evening.

Detective Sergeant Cargin said, “We have launched an investigation and at this time, we are treating these six reports as linked.” He urged anyone with information, CCTV footage, or dashcam recordings from the Newry area between 19:00 and 22:30 to come forward.

The PSNI is asking the public to contact detectives on 101, quoting reference 1566 of 13/09/24. Alternatively, information can be reported online through the PSNI website or anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities immediately as the investigation continues.