Elderly woman left shaken by intruder

The incident occurred on the evening of Saturday, November 1 in the Newry Road area of Banbridge and detectives are appealing for information.

Detective Constable Mandy Campbell said: “Sometime around 7pm, a man entered the home of an elderly woman and demanded money.

“The woman left the house and it is believed that the man made off empty handed.

“The woman was not injured in the incident but was left shaken.”

Speaking of the incident, councillor Joan Baird expressed her disgust at the attempted burglary.

“To go into someone’s house who lives on their own is very serious in any situation never mind for someone who is also elderly and the shock of which could result in serious consequences for their health” she said.

“I totally condemn this incident and hope the PSNI will be able to find the culprit although this often proves difficult.

“I’m very pleased that the elderly woman did not sustain any injury during the intrusion, but nonetheless this must have left her badly shaken and feeling very vulnerable and nervous.”

Councillor Baird continued: “I feel we should always be watching out for all of our neighbours, but especially the elderly who live in our area”.

police have also issued a statement appealing for people to be vigilant and watch out for their elderly neighbours.

“Neighbours can play a part in helping protect the more vulnerable in their community.

“Residents should try to look out for one another and people should be on the lookout for any suspicious activity in your local area. We take all such reports very seriously.

“Thieves operate at different times of the day and if you notice anything untoward in your neighbourhood, or see unknown vehicles outside premises, note down any important details such as a description or vehicle registration and contact police immediately on 999.

“Officers will follow up on your call and your prompt information could prevent a crime from occurring. The non emergency police number is 101.”

Police in Banbridge are appealing for anyone who may have seen any suspicious behaviour in the area at the time of the incident to contact CID at Lurgan Police Station on the non emergency number 101.

Or if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.