Armed burglars tried to strangle man during attack in his home
The injured man had to receive treatment for a head wound.
Details of the attack in Co Limerick emerged last night as gardaí sought help in finding the culprits.
This is the second aggravated burglary in the area in the past two weeks.
In a previous incident, retired insurance broker, Don Reddan was attacked and tied up by a masked man wielding a hatchet. Mr Reddan, 74, managed to free himself after two hours and alerted a neighbour.
The most recent attack occurred at a house in Beaskabeg, Clarina, just after 10pm last Saturday.
Sergeant Justin McCarthy said: “The owner of the house answered the front door when he was confronted by two masked men. He was then removed by force to a bedroom of the house where he was assaulted and his phone taken.
“During the assault, the injured party was struck over the head and an effort made to place an electric cable around his neck. Both culprits then left the house and made good their escape in a dark-coloured car, perhaps a VW Passat.
“The culprits are described as wearing dark clothing, approximately 5’ 9” in height. It is believed one was heavy set, balding, and aged about 30 years.
“We would like to hear from any members of the public who saw any person or persons or possibly a dark coloured car in this area last Saturday night to contact the gardaí at Roxboro Rd.”
Gardaí are also investigating another burglary at Mountshannon Rd, Lisnagry, just after 9am last Thursday.
Sgt McCarthy said: “The owner of the house disturbed two intruders who had gained entry inside the house. Both suspects left when disturbed. One suspect is described as being of slight build and aged 18 to 22 years. If anyone saw anything suspicious in this area early last Thursday night we would ask that they make contact with gardaí at Henry St on 061 212400.”
Fianna Fáil TD for Limerick Niall Collins said there is heightened concern in the county at the increase in burglaries and house break-ins.
“In most of these crimes, the victims are subjected to extreme violence and are terrorised in their own homes,” said Mr Collins.
“I am concerned that, in a recent case at Limerick District Court, the DPP applied to have a man who broke into two houses dealt with in that court rather than the higher circuit court. Thankfully, the district court judge ignored the DPP’s application to have it dealt with in that court and sent the accused forward to the circuit court.
“House break-ins cause great anxiety and trauma, even when the owners are not at home at the time of the crime.
“It is an invasion, and the victims feel it is a violation, and it often results in long-lasting fear and worry.”
