Attempted carjacking bid leaves Cookstown driver shaken after masked gang strike in daylight

A motorist escaped unharmed after a group of masked men allegedly attempted to drag him from his vehicle during a brazen daylight incident in Cookstown.

Police have launched an investigation following what detectives are treating as an attempted hijacking on the East Circular Road on Wednesday afternoon.

The incident occurred between 2.10pm and 2.15pm on Wednesday, 10 June, when the driver was travelling along the road and noticed a number of males dressed in dark clothing, wearing masks and gloves, near the entrance to Beechway.

Driver forced to stop as group blocks road

According to detectives, two members of the group stepped directly in front of the vehicle, forcing the driver to bring his car to a halt.

A third male then allegedly opened the vehicle door and attempted to pull the driver from the car.

During the struggle, the victim’s clothing was torn.

Detective Inspector Ryan said:

“It was reported that between 2.10 and 2.15pm on Wednesday 10th June, a man was driving along the East Circular Road when he observed a number of males, dressed in dark coloured clothing, masks and gloves, standing on the footbath close to the entrance to Beechway.

“Two of them stepped in front of his vehicle, forcing him to stop. A third opened his door and attempted to pull him out of it, ripping his top in the process.

“The driver managed to accelerate away from the scene, and thankfully, was not hurt.”

Police appeal for witnesses and footage

Detectives are now appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident to come forward.

Investigators are particularly keen to hear from motorists or pedestrians who may have captured footage on dash cams or mobile phones that could assist enquiries.

Detective Inspector Ryan added:

“An investigation is underway, and we are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time, or who might have any mobile phone footage or dash cam, to get in touch.

“The number to call is 101, quoting reference number 1103 of 10/06/26.”

Information can be provided anonymously

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 and quote reference number 1103 of 10/06/26.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

The investigation remains ongoing as detectives work to identify those involved and establish the full circumstances surrounding the attempted hijacking.