‘Shocking and despicable act’ – Local politicians furious after Newry armed robbery
Local politicians were united in anger today after five priests were held at gunpoint during an armed robbery at the Parochial House in Dominic Street, Newry.
Police are seeking two men in connection with the shocking robbery
At around 8:30pm yesterday evening two men entered St Catherine’s Dominican Priory and threatened five priests who were in the house at the time.
The men then made off from the Parochial House with a sum of money. It is believed none of the five priests were injured in the robbery but all were left shaken by the incident.
Newry Sinn Fein Councillor Charlie Casey described the robbery as ‘a frightening and worrying experience for the five Priests involved.’
Casey stated, “This is a shocking incident to have taken place in broad daylight and my thoughts are with the Priests who were in the Parochial House at the time.
“Everybody has the right to feel safe in their own home and this applies to Priests as much as anyone else. I appeal to anyone with information to bring it to the PSNI,” Casey added.
SDLP MLA for Newry and Armagh Dominic Bradley echoed Casey’s sentiments. “This was a despicable act,” blasted Bradley.
“The robbery of a community who live by a vow of poverty and depend on donations from its congregation – those who carried it out have shown no respect whatsoever for the Church or its people.
Bradley was angered by the armed robbery
“The Dominican community in Newry has been a part of Newry for many years and has served the people faithfully over the generations.
“Newry people are disgusted by this robbery and only want those responsible to be apprehended as quickly as possible. I would appeal to anyone who has any information which might help the police in their enquiries to contact Ardmore police station or Crimestoppers.
Meanwhile, Police have revealed they are looking for two suspects in connection with the armed robbery. The two suspects both spoke with a southern Irish accent.
The first male is described by police as white, mid 30’s, 6 ft 1 in height, of slim build, short grey beard. He was wearing a grey shirt and jeans.
The second man police are seeking is described as white, of heavy build, bad skin and wearing a dark hooded top.
Police would appeal for anyone with any information to contact Detectives in Newry on 0845 600 8000. Alternatively, 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.
Priests threatened at gunpoint in Newry robbery
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Posted by Newry Times News
on Jun 14 2013. Filed under Community, News.
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