Drumquin pensioner injured during attempted burglary

A MAN in his 70s is being treated in hospital after he was assaulted during an attempted burglary at his house in the Drumquin area in the early hours of this morning.

Shortly after 3am, the resident was awoken by a noise and subsequently found two males outside his property on Drumscra Road.

The resident confronted the pair, who had been attempting to gain access to the property, in the front garden and was assaulted.

None of his injuries are believed to be serious, the PSNI said.

The thieves then made off with the victim’s phone.

One of the suspects is described as wearing a grey hoodie whilst the other was wearing a black hoodie, both with the hoods pulled up.

Both men are believed to be around 5’8 in height and spoke with local accents.

Inspector Gavin Sterling said, “The victim sustained some injuries in the assault and is being treated in hospital however thankfully none of his injuries are believed to be serious.

“This was a despicable crime perpetrated against an older person at their own home in the dead of night.” 

Condemning the incident, West Tyrone MLA, Catherine Kelly, said there was no place for this “vile behaviour” in society.

She said, “It was a disgusting incident and the community in Drumquin are genuinely shocked about what has happened.

“Everyone should feel safe and secure in their own homes and I would remind everyone of the need to be extra vigilant at this time.”

The MLA added, “I would urge anyone with any information about this crime to bring it to the PSNI to assist with their investigation.”

Inspector Sterling urged anyone with information to get in touch with police in Omagh by calling 101.

He added, “Or, alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100 per-cent anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”