A Cusher councillor has condemned a spate of six burglaries that took place in Armagh and Newtownhamilton in broad daylight .
The burglaries, which police believed are linked, took place on the Newtownhamilton Road in Armagh and the Dundalk Road in Newtownhamilton around lunchtime on Wednesday, June 30.
Speaking about the incidents, Alderman Speers described the actions of those responsible as “disgraceful” and called on anyone with any information to speak to the police.
“To think six homes have been burgled in broad daylight, it is simply disgraceful,” said Alderman Speers.
“I was out with constituents when one of them mentioned the robberies and noted how a car had approached their property.
“When they saw the people in the house they asked for directions to Downpatrick, it seemed a little strange to these people at the time but thankfully the car then drove off.
“But to think six homes have had this happen while good, honest people are busy going about their day is dreadful.
“I would appeal for anyone who may have seen something that could help find those responsible to get in touch with the police.
“I would also urge everyone, given the nature of this crime, to make sure their homes are secure every time they leave. It is a sorry state of affairs but people are better safe than sorry.”
Detective Sergeant Stewart confirmed police are investigating reports of six burglaries and are keen to speak to anyone who may have noticed a dark-coloured Audi, with up to five people on-board, in the area.
“We have received five reports of burglaries in the Newtownhamilton Road area of Armagh, and one in the Dundalk Road area of Newtownhamilton,” he said.
“All the incidents happened around lunchtime on Wednesday, June 30, with the first incident, in Armagh, reported around 12.45pm.
“We have been notified of a sighting of a dark-coloured Audi in the area, with up to five people on-board.
“The intrusions happened in broad daylight, at a time when people would have been going about their normal business, and I am appealing to anyone with information to get in touch.
“If you noticed this vehicle or anyone acting suspiciously, or if you happened to capture any dash cam footage, please contact us on 101 quoting reference number 794 of 30/06/21.”
Detective Sergeant Stewart also asked members of the public to take extra care to keep homes and belongings safe.
He continued: “Please make security part of your daily routine. Close and lock all doors and windows, even if you are only popping out for a few minutes.
“Leave a light on if it will be dark before you get home. And consider security lights.
“To a burglar, a dark house is an empty house. Please also keep a look out for any elderly or vulnerable neighbours.
“If you see or hear anything that seems suspicious call 101 and in the event of an emergency call 999.”
