Police seek witnesses after violent assault in aggravated burglary in Ballyclare

Police in Ballyclare are urgently appealing for witnesses and information following a violent aggravated burglary in the Thornhill Drive area of the town on Thursday, 4th September 2025.

The incident, which left one man hospitalised with injuries, has been described as a shocking display of violence, with authorities condemning the attackers’ “complete disregard for human dignity and the rule of the law.”

According to Detective Sergeant Ash, the incident was reported at approximately 9:20pm when two masked men, armed with baseball bats, forcibly entered a property in Thornhill Drive.

“It’s understood that two masked men entered the property armed with baseball bats,” Detective Sergeant Ash explained.

The situation escalated as two men inside the house fled into a nearby field, where one was brutally assaulted by up to six masked individuals.

The victim sustained injuries to his arms and legs, requiring immediate medical attention before being transferred to hospital for further treatment. The second man escaped unharmed.

The attack has left the victim with significant physical and psychological trauma. Detective Sergeant Ash condemned the violence, stating, “Those responsible have shown a complete disregard for human dignity and the rule of the law. This attack has also left the victim with lasting physical and psychological trauma – no one deserves to be attacked. There is no justification for this violence.”

No arrests have been made as of yet, but the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is actively pursuing enquiries to establish the full circumstances of the incident and identify those involved. Authorities are now calling on the public to assist with the investigation.

“Anyone who witnessed what happened or has information that could help with our enquiries is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1574 04/09/25,” said Detective Sergeant Ash.

The police are also keen to obtain any dash-cam, CCTV, or other footage from the area that could provide vital clues.

For those who wish to provide information anonymously, reports can be submitted through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. Alternatively, information can be reported directly to the PSNI via their website at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.

“We would also be keen to hear from anyone who may have dash-cam, CCTV or other footage of the area,” Detective Sergeant Ash reiterated, highlighting the potential significance of even minor details in piecing together the events of the evening.