Police in Fermanagh are investigating two burglaries in the Lisnaskea and Newtownbutler areas on Sunday. Entry was gained to a house on Knocks Road, Lisnaskea, between 12 noon and 6.30pm, and the property was ransacked. A sum of cash was taken. A second house on Landbrock Road, Newtownbutler, was broken into between 5.20pm and 5.55pm, also ransacked, with cash stolen.

Inspector Hicks said enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances and whether the incidents are linked. Police are particularly keen to hear from anyone with CCTV, dash-cam or other footage of the areas, or who noticed suspicious vehicles or individuals.

Local councillor Victor Warrington urged residents to remain vigilant and keep valuables locked away. He encouraged people to report suspicious activity to the PSNI. He also advised those living alone to take extra care and for neighbours to check on them regularly.

In a separate incident, detectives in north Belfast are appealing for information following an aggravated burglary at a flat in the New Lodge Place area in the early hours of Monday 9 November. Detective Sergeant Long said a man entered the property through a rear door shortly before 5.10am. A woman inside was awakened by the intruder, who was in possession of two knives.

The man took her phone and made off into the hallway, where a scuffle ensued and the phone was discarded. He then took the victim’s purse from the living room, where another altercation followed. He dropped one of the knives and left via the front door in the direction of New Lodge Road.

The suspect is described as approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall, wearing all black clothing and a black beanie hat. The woman was uninjured.

Police have issued crime prevention advice to householders, including locking all doors and windows, keeping valuables and keys out of sight, checking for weaknesses, ensuring alarms are properly installed, and considering CCTV or doorbell cameras. They also suggest getting to know neighbours to look out for one another.

Anyone with information about the Fermanagh burglaries is asked to contact police quoting reference 1343 of 081126. For the north Belfast incident, the reference is 132 09/11/26. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.