Three arrested by detectives after suspected distraction burglaries in Ballymena

Local residents in Ballymena are being urged to stay vigilant after a series of suspected distraction burglaries led to three arrests this week.

Detectives say the incidents, which involved men offering bogus cleaning services before taking money from householders, have sparked concern in the local community.

How the incidents unfolded

According to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), officers received a report at around 4pm on Monday, March 23, that a number of men arrived at a home offering cleaning services.

Detective Inspector Gallagher said the situation quickly escalated.

“It subsequently transpired that the cleaning had not been carried out, but the occupant had been charged and paid in cash. One of the males was also reported to have taken a sum of cash before leaving the property.”

In a second, similar incident in the same area, a man reportedly entered another property claiming he had already cleaned the driveway, before taking money from the householder’s purse.

Arrests made as enquiries continue

Police confirmed that arrests have been made in Derry/Londonderry and Newtownstewart areas as part of enquiries into reports of suspicious activity in Ballymena earlier this week.

The arrests were made by Tactical Support Group officers based in Maydown when on patrol in the Victoria Road area on Wednesday night, 25 March.

A 17-year-old male teenager and a 28-year-old man arrested on suspicion of burglary remain in custody at this time.

A 19-year-old man, who was arrested by Local Response Team officers in Derry/Londonderry on 24 March, also on suspicion of burglary, has since been released on bail pending further enquiries. 

The three arrests follow reports earlier this week of suspicious activity in Ballymena where householders were approached by male/s offering to carrying out general maintenance work. 

Detective Inspector Gallagher added:

“Enquiries are ongoing, and detectives would continue to appeal to anyone with any information, or anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity in the area at the time, to get in touch.”

Appeal for information

Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed suspicious behaviour in the Brooke Park area on Monday afternoon to come forward.

Members of the public can contact police on 101, quoting reference 1362 of 23/03/26.

Information can also be shared online via the PSNI website or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Community urged to stay alert

The incidents highlight the ongoing risk of so-called “distraction burglaries”, where offenders gain entry to homes under false pretences.

Earlier this week police reminded residents to be cautious of unexpected callers offering services, particularly if they request immediate payment or access to the property.

A PSNI spokesperson said:

“We are advising people to be vigilant and report any suspicious strangers offering unsolicited services or trying to gain access to homes. This could involve offers to clean driveways, repair roofs or other maintenance or repair work.

“Not all cold-callers are rogue traders or fraudsters, however, those intent on committing crime will employ any tactic to engage you and lower your guard.

“If someone calls to your home offering a service you have not sought out, or making enquiries about any work you may need done, trust your gut - if you feel that something isn't quite right, it usually isn't. Don’t permit them into your home, do not make any advance payments and report anything that raises your suspicions to us immediately. 

“It is so important to share details of these types of interactions and behaviours with us. The sooner information is reported, even if it is on behalf of others, the better our chances are of catching a potential criminal. This is also a good way to help us spot potential patterns and implement patrolling to deter criminals and reduce crimes of this nature in the local area.”

---

At a glance

• Two men arrested following suspected burglaries in Ballymena

• Incidents took place in the Brooke Park area on March 23

• Suspects allegedly posed as cleaners to gain access to homes

• Victims were charged cash despite no work being carried out

• Money was also reportedly taken directly from inside properties

• One suspect is in his 20s; the other is a teenager

• Both remain in custody assisting police enquiries

• Police are appealing for witnesses or information

• Reference number: 1362 of 23/03/26

• Residents urged to remain vigilant against distraction scams