Updated 4.55pm 

POLICE IN NORTHERN Ireland are investigating a number of reported robberies.

The PSNI received reports of two burglaries at houses in Newry and Bessbrook, Armagh yesterday evening.

A number of men travelling in a dark-coloured car, possibly a BMW 1 Series, allegedly broke into two properties.

“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,” Detective Inspector Trevor Stevenson said.

Off-licence 

Earlier, the PSNI said it was investigating a report of an armed robbery at an off-licence on the Upper Lisburn Road in the Finaghy area of Belfast this morning.

It was reported that a male entered the shop at around 8.10am and threatened a female member of staff with a knife and demanded money.

A small sum of cash was handed over before he made off on foot. The man is described as being aged in his 20s, around 5’5” tall, of heavy build. He was wearing a red hat and a red hooded top.

Police said the employee was not harmed, but was left badly shaken following the incident.

The PSNI has appealed for witnesses or anyone with information about the above incidents to contact them on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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