Two men arrested over attempted armed robberies in south Belfast

By Adam Evans

Two men have been arrested in connection with attempted robberies at shops on Belfast's Lisburn Road.

They both happened last night - and involved a man with his face covered brandishing an orange-coloured knife and threatening staff.

Detectives have a 28-year-old and 26-year-old in custody.

Detective Sergeant Stephen Gardiner said: "Police received a report at 8:10pm that a male attempted to rob a shop on the Lisburn Road. It was reported that he threatened a staff member with an orange-coloured knife during the incident. The suspect is described as being aged in his early 20s, he had his face covered, was wearing jeans and a blue/navy jacket. 

"Nothing was reported stolen and no-one was injured during the incident. We believe this incident occurred just after 8pm. 

"At around 8:35pm police received a report that another shop on the Lisburn Road had been robbed. This male had a similar description to the suspect involved in the earlier incident and was also reported to have threatened staff with an orange-coloured knife. A sum of cash was reported stolen. No-one was injured during the incident. 

"Later that evening, police arrested two males, aged 28 and 26. 

"The 28-year-old was arrested on suspicion of robbery and attempted robbery. The 26-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of aiding and abetting robbery, possession of a Class B controlled drug and assault on police. 

"Both men remain in custody, assisting police with their enquiries. 

"I am appealing for anyone who was in the Lisburn Road area last night between 8pm and 8:30pm and who may have witnessed either of these incidents, or who has information that can assist with the investigation to contact Detectives in Musgrave on the non emergency number 101, quoting reference number 1244 of 16/03/18. Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime."