Elderly couple locked in room during aggravated burglary

An elderly couple in their seventies endured a terrifying ordeal when they were locked into a bedroom during an aggravated burglary at their home in Drumconrath last night. The elderly man was also assaulted during the shocking incident, receiving a punch to the face and was taken to hospital this morning after raising the alarm.

The couple returned home at 10.15pm last night to find two intruders in their house. A rear window had been smashed to gain entry. The two suspects demanded cash and jewellery and struck the man a blow before locking the couple in a bedroom. They made off with a small sum of cash and two mobile phones.

The couple managed to free themselves early this morning and alerted Gardai shortly after 7am. Gardai and the ambulance service attended the scene. The couple were extremely traumatised by the incident and the man was taken to hospital as a precaution.

The house was technically examined and Gardai are today carrying out door-to-door enquiries in the area. An incident room has been set up at Navan Garda Station.

Inspector Peter Gilsenan has issued an appeal for information. "We are appealing for anyone who was on the Woodtown to Drumconrath Road anytime yesterday evening, particularly between 9pm and 11pm who noticed any vehicles parked up that appeared suspicious or weren't known in the area or any other unsual activity to contact us. If anyone comes across property discarded, such as the mobile phones, we would also like to hear from them."

Insp Gilsenan said the house isn't far from the local football field where there is a walking track and that perhaps people using the facility may have noticed something unusual. Gardai are also keen to hear from anybody who has private CCTV at their homes.

The two suspects were wearing dark clothes and had their faces covered. The spoke with Irish accents. At this stage, it is not known what vehicle they may have made their getaway in or if there was a third suspect waiting outside.

Anyone with information that could help with this investigation is asked to contact Navan Garda Station on (046) 9036100.