Pensioner targeted by 'ruthless' gang

At around 12.45am on Friday (February 26) four men armed with screwdrivers gained entry to the 79-year-old’s house in the Ballyvesey Road area. They tied him to a chair before making off with a sum of cash.

The victim sustained an injury to his face and was left badly shaken by the ordeal.

The robbers are described as being aged in their early 20s and all around 6ft in height.

Investigating officers have urged anyone with information to contact them at Newtownabbey Police Station.

Echoing that appeal, DPP Chairman Fraser Agnew said: “This robbery had all the hallmarks of a determined and planned attack by ruthless criminals. Thankfully the elderly gentleman was not seriously injured, although he must have been traumatised by the whole experience. To have four men force their way into your home in the wee small hours must have been terrifying.

“If anyone has any information that could help identify those involved they should contact the police immediately.”

DPP member Nigel Hamilton added: “It is appalling that such a person should be made a victim in his own home. The animals who did this have no place in our society. People want to see swift and determined action by the police to apprehend and make an example of these thugs.”

Last week’s incident was the latest in a series of attacks on elderly householders around the borough over the past couple of months.