PSNI believe double burglaries are linked

PSNI believe double burglaries are linked

30 April 2025

POLICE believe a recent burglary in Killyleagh carried out by three men may be linked to one in Newtownards which occurred on the same evening of April 22.

The PSNI initially received a report of a burglary around 10.40pm in the South Street area of Newtownards when entry was gained to a property via a front which had been forced.

A number of rooms were ransacked and valuables stolen.

Just under one hour later, police received another report of a burglary at a house in the Cross Street area of Killyleagh.

Three men armed with iron bars made their way in through the front of the property and valuables were stolen, with both incidents prompting police to encourage homeowners to make security a central part of their daily routine. 

In addition, they have been advised not keep large amounts of money at home or carry it with them.

“Thieves have been known to employ a number of tactics to establish the routines and habits of business owners, such as following them to and from their home, place of business, wholesalers or suppliers, and even determining the frequency of trips to the bank to determine if 

cash deposits from the business are being kept in the home,” said a spokesman.  

 “Conduct regular security checks of your home and business. Are doors and windows secure, is there an alarm or other security system fitted and working? 

“If you don’t have CCTV or a doorbell camera, consider installing one. Invest in a dash-cam.”

Police say most importantly, people who see anything or anyone suspicious, or have any concerns that their business may be a target to contact them right away.

Officers say their enquiries are continuing into both burglaries and they are especially keen to hear from anyone who may have CCTV, dash-cam or other footage of Cross Street in Killyleagh.

Anyone who believes they may be able to help is asked to get in touch using the non-emergency 101 number quoting reference 1680 and 1710 22/04/25.

Information can also be provided via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport  or anonymously using the confidential Crimestoppers number 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.