NEWTOWNHAMILTON, ARMAGH — The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has issued an urgent appeal for information after two churches in the village of Newtownhamilton were targeted by burglars on Christmas Day.
Details of the Incident:
- Targeted Locations: The break-ins occurred at St Michael’s Catholic Church (Dundalk Street) and the Second Newtownhamilton Presbyterian Church (Castleblayney Street).
- Timeline: The incidents took place between 3:00 PM on Christmas Day (Thursday) and 9:00 AM on St. Stephen’s Day (Friday).
- Damage & Theft: Intruders caused physical damage to both buildings. Stolen items include electronic speakers and a wall clock.
- Official Response: PSNI Sergeant Nelson condemned the acts, noting that the Slieve Gullion Neighbourhood Policing Team has increased patrols. Local MLA Aoife Finnegan described the targeting of places of worship during the festive period as “reprehensible.”
The public is urged to report any suspicious activity around places of worship or provide any available CCTV/dashcam footage to the PSNI.
