Police appeal following spate of burglaries in Belfast

By Q Radio News

Police are appealing for information following a spate of burglaries in Belfast. 

A number of properties were targeted in the south of the city in the early hours of this morning. 

The first two incidents were reported in the Hampton Park area after a man tried to gain access to two houses there at around 4am. 

The perpetrator also tried to gain entry to a car which was parked nearby.

Around 90 minutes later someone successfully gained entry causing damage to a property on Hampton Manor before trying to break into a car in the area. 

Detectives are trying to locate the suspect who was seen in the area wearing a hooded top. 

Meanwhile the occupants of a house in Crumlin have been left badly shaken following a creeper burglary at around 6.30am. 

Entry was forced the property on Ballytromery Road before the keys to a black Hyundai Getz were taken and used to steal the car. 

The vehicle was located on the Cochranstown Road in Dundrod just before 9am. 

Inspector Stephen Patty said it was "a frightening experience" for the people living there as he appealed for anyone with information that could help police identify the perpetrator to get in touch with us on 101, and quote reference number 195 of 01/04/20. 

Detective Sergeant Arnott said: “At around 4am, it was reported that an unknown male attempted to gain entry to a property at the Hampton Park area.

"Shortly after 4:05am, it was reported that a male attempted to gain entry to another property in the Hampton Park area of south Belfast.

"An attempt to gain entry to a car parked nearby was also made. Damage was not reported to either the vehicle or the two properties.

"At around 5:20am, it was reported that an attempt to gain entry to a property in the Hampton Manor area of south Belfast and a car parked nearby was made.

"A male, described as wearing a hooded top was seen in the area at the time of the incident. 

"Entry was gained to the property, but not the vehicle.

"Damage was caused to the property, but not the vehicle during the incident.

“Enquiries are continuing and at this stage, we are investigating a possible link between these incidents.

“We would appeal to anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the area or who may have any information to help with our investigation, to contact detectives on 101 quoting reference number 167 01/04/20.

"Alternatively, information can also 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 crime.”