Detectives are appealing for information after a man, aged in his 70s, was punched during a distraction burglary in East Belfast.
It was reported that, at around 11.30am on Monday, a man entered the house in Campbell Park Avenue on the pretence of being from a utilities company.
While he distracted the occupant downstairs, a second man entered the property and proceeded to ransack an upstairs room - the two males left with a sum of money.
Detective Sergeant Wilson said: "This was a cowardly and violent act, during which a man was punched several times in the face. While, thankfully, he hasn’t sustained any serious physical injuries, he has been left badly shaken.
"I am appealing to anyone who noticed any suspicious activity, or who may have captured dash cam footage, to contact us on 101 quoting reference number 729 of 22/03/21. This happened in broad daylight when people would have been out and about, so please get in touch with any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem.
"Please never feel pressurised into opening your door and always ask for identification, especially if the caller claims to represent a business or public service organisation. I’m also asking friends and neighbours to keep a look out for loved ones, especially those who may be older or vulnerable. If anything doesn’t seem quite right call 101, and in an emergency call 999.
"A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport. Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org."
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