String of Holylands burglaries: Intruder broke into Fitzroy man’s bedroom as he slept

Three houses were targets in under two hours

belfast fitzroy avenue Holylands palestine street qub rugby avenue

The Holylands was rocked by a string of break-ins last week, after a gang of three men ruthlessly targeted houses on Wednesday night.

In one case, a man living on Fitzroy avenue woke up at around 2am to find the intruder in his bedroom, trying to rob him as he slept.

Fitzroy Avenue was the first stop for gang of intruders


Another man was also found in the house but both men left when they were challenged by the brave Fitzroy residents.

Shortly afterwards, at around 2.20AM, the PSNI were called to a second break in on nearby Rugby Avenue.

Three men kicked in the front door and when confronted by its residents one of the gang brandished a knife.

In the following struggle one of the residents was assaulted and suffered facial injuries.

Just 10 minutes later police were called to yet another attempted break in on Palestine Street, where again a gang of three men, one armed with a knife, were trying to kick in the door.

The men initially entered the property, but left when challenged by the occupants, only to return a short time later, hammering on the door and threatening the house-holders.

Three men aged 21, 25 and 38 have been arrested in relation to the incidents, but police are continuing to appeal for information.

Detective Sergeant Dolores Black said: “I would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed any of these incidents, or who has any information, to contact detectives at Musgrave on the non-emergency number 101.

“Or, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Did you witness this incident? Let us know at [email protected]