Older couple subjected to ‘terrible ordeal’ after masked men broke into home

An older couple have been put through a “terrible ordeal” after masked men forced their way into their home, police said.

Two men, one of whom was armed with a hurl, forced their way into the house on the Carrickasticken Road in Forkhill at around 12.15am on Tuesday.

Police said the armed intruder threatened the occupants, demanding money, before the two men ransacked the property and pulled the home phone cord from the wall.

They fled with cash and jewellery.

The suspects are both described as being of stocky build and wearing dark clothing, caps and face coverings. They made their escape in a vehicle.

A PSNI spokesperson said the force is “investigating a potential link” between this crime and another attempted burglary in Warrenpoint around an hour later when a householder disturbed two men outside his Lagan Court home.

The suspects fled that scene in a small dark-coloured car.

Detective Inspector Jill Angus said the victims were put through a “terrible ordeal”, being “awoken in the middle of the night by masked strangers”.

“And in the case of the couple in Forkhill, were subjected to threats of violence in their own home,” she added.

“We are rigorously investigating these incidents and we are increasing our anti-burglary patrolling, particularly in our border areas, however we do also need the public’s help to prevent these crimes and to identify the people responsible.

“If you captured CCTV, doorbell, dashcam or any footage in the Forkhill or Warrenpoint areas at the relevant times during the early hours, please get in touch.

“If you notice anything out of the ordinary, people or vehicles that arouse your suspicion, particularly late at night or early in the morning, do not hesitate to contact us.

“Police can be reached any time by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.”