Woman left shocked after being threatened by man armed with sword

The terrifying incident occurred in the Upper Ballyboley Road area of Ballyclare in the early hours of Friday morning, June 28.

A 20-year-old man was arrested and questioned on suspicion of a number of offences, including aggravated burglary and aggravated vehicle taking.

Detective Sergeant Coulter said: “We received a report that at around 1am a man had entered a property in the Upper Ballyboley Road area armed with what was described as a sword.

“The man threatened the female occupant, who is aged in her 60s, and demanded she hand over car keys and money. He then made off in a blue Peugeot 106. The vehicle was found burnt out a short distance down the road. The woman was not injured, however, she was left very shocked by the incident.

“Officers subsequently arrested a 20-year-old-man on suspicion of aggravated burglary and stealing; aggravated vehicle taking causing damage to the vehicle and driving while disqualified. He has since been released on bail pending further enquiries."

DS Coulter added: “Our enquires are continuing and I want to appeal to anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the area, or who saw the car involved to contact detectives in Ballymena on 101, quoting reference number 112 28/6/19.

"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."