Man assaulted at towpath

At around 8am three men targeted the man as he walked along the towpath. They assaulted and robbed him.

His wallet containing a sum of cash, cards and a prescription was taken from him.

The man was later taken to hospital for treatment for his injuries which are not believed to be life threatening.

Police in Lisburn are appealing for information following the robbery that occurred close to Ballyskeagh Road.

One of the males is described as being about 22 or 23 years old, approximately 6’5” tall, with stubble, closed shaved hair and shaved lines on his eyebrow.

He was wearing a short sleeve football top, brown tracksuit bottoms, black trainers and had a diamond stud in his right ear.

The second man is described as being aged in his 20s, approximately 5’9” tall and of muscular build. He was wearing a blue hooded top, black tight jeans, a light brown baseball cap and black woolly gloves.

The third man is described as being approximately 19 years old, about 5’5” tall, of slim build and black hair. He was wearing black tight jeans and white trainers.

Anyone with any information about this incident is asked to contact Lisburn 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 chairty Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Local MLA Jonathan Craig and member of the Policing Board described the incident as ‘alarming’ and ‘disturbing.’

“The Lagan Towpath is promoted as a tourist destination and is used regularly by many people in the Lagan Valley region,” said Mr Craig.

“The fact that this has happened there and happened so early in the morning is both shocking and alarming.

“This is obviously something that needs to be addressed.

“I will be asking the police to increase the patrols in the area so that people using the towpath can feel safe.

“I hope the police fully investigate the incident and hope that witnesses will come forward. Anyone who may have information should ring the police to help with their investigations.

“I hope that someone is charged and feel the full rigours of the law.”