Thugs who targeted an elderly couple in south Armagh subjected the petrified pair to an “intolerable experience for 15 minutes”, it has been revealed.
Four masked men forced their way into the couple’s home in Forkhill on Thursday night in what may have been a case of the hitting the wrong address.
Sinn Fein Councillor Mickey Larkin said the thugs revealed, upon leaving the property, that they may have selected the wrong house.
They searched the home and used “spurious” reasons to do so.
“The householders, who are respected elders within the community, were subjected to an intolerable experience for 15 minutes during which the lady of the house was assaulted,” he added.
“I have visited the couple who were subjected to this horrible ordeal and have assured them that they have the full support of myself and the Forkhill community.
“Over the past few days I have liaised with the PSNI and the community in respect of this incident.
“I would encourage anyone with information relating to this incident to contact the PSNI or myself in order to bring such occurrences to an end.”
Detective Superintendent Rowan Moore said police received a report that shortly before 9pm, four masked men forced their way into the property.
He added: “One of the males pushed the female occupant, who is in her 70s and, after a brief verbal exchange, the men fled from the property.
“One line of enquiry is that the suspects have targeted the wrong address.
“Thankfully, the woman was not physically injured, however, she and her husband have been left badly shaken by what must been a terrifying experience for them.
“This despicable act occurred in their home, a place where they rightly deserve to feel safe.
“Enquiries are continuing and we are appealing to anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the area to contact police on 101, quoting reference number CW 1903 – 24/09/20. We are keen to speak to any witnesses who saw a white coloured Saloon car in the area of Forkhill around 9pm.
“Alternatively, information can be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop this and any other form of crime.
“You can also submit a report online using our non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/”
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