Masked and armed gang damage north Belfast property before fleeing

Detectives are investigating the incident in north Belfast.

Detective Inspector Kerry Brennan said police received a report that a number of masked men had arrived outside an address in the Gray’s Lane area.

The men are reported to have had their faces covered, and they were wearing dark clothing with their hoods pulled up.

Two of the men, one of whom was reportedly armed with a handgun, made an approach to the front door of the property and demanded entry. When they weren’t able to access the property, they reportedly damaged the door before escaping on foot.

“Enquiries are continuing and we are treating the incident as a sectarian hate crime.

“I want to take this opportunity to appeal to anyone who was in the area prior to, or around the time the incident was reported to us, and who saw any suspicious activity to get in touch with detectives at Musgrave on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 2190 of 11/10/19.

“Information can also be given anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111,” added Detective Inspector Kerry Brennan.