Woman grabbed by throat during robbery at north Belfast shop

by Gráinne Connolly

A woman has been left badly shaken after being grabbed by the throat during a robbery at a shop she was working in in north Belfast. 

It happened on Duncrue Street just after 6.30pm yesterday evening. 

It was reported that three men entered the business with their faces covered and were armed with a hatchet, bolt cutter and a third unidentified item. 

A fourth man remained in a car outside. 

Police say the worker was grabbed by the throat and ordered to open the till, before the men made off in the car with a sum of cash. 

A car was later found on fire a short distance away. 

Detective Sergeant O'Flaherty said, “While the member of staff was physically uninjured, this was, without doubt, a terrifying ordeal and we’re appealing to anyone with information to get in touch.

“One report describes four males running in the direction of Ayr Street.  

“If you were in the area and witnessed any suspicious activity, contact us on 101, quoting reference number 1894 of 09/08/19.”

Alternatively, information can 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.