Police believe two men in a dark coloured car are behind a spate of burglaries last night – including one in Bessbrook which saw a family’s pet dog brutally killed.
It is being reported that the dog – understood to be a Jack Russell – was then left in a child’s bed.
The family are said to have been devastated by the barbaric act which has shocked the local community.
“The killing of a family pet has reached a new low,” said Sinn Fein Councillor Roisin Mulgrew. “Local people are rightly angry.”
Detectives have today (Saturday), issued an appeal for the incident, one of a string of burglaries in the area, with homes in Loughbrickland, Newry and Bessbrook all targeted.
Detective Inspector Trevor Stevenson said: “Police received reports that a number of men travelling in a dark coloured car, possibly a BMW 1 Series, had broken into properties at Donard View in Loughbrickland, Derrymore Road in Newry and Archdale in Bessbrook on Friday evening.
“Entry was forced to the houses in each instance with jewellery and cash stolen.
“A family pet was reported to have been killed at the house in Bessbrook.
“These incidents follow reports in recent days of suspicious activity in the Bessbrook and Camlough areas, involving men travelling in a car matching the description given last night.
“We believe these incidents may be linked and are actively seeking to locate this car and its occupants.
“I would ask anyone who has any information to assist police with our enquiries to contact detectives at Ardmore on 101. Information can also be given anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
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