19/02/2020

Ice Cream Van Stolen In Belfast

Two men have been arrested following the theft of an ice cream van in west Belfast.

The crime spree on Tuesday night, 18 February also involved an assault on a member of the public and a collision with a parked vehicle.

The suspects, aged 23 and 28, remain in custody.

It's reported that the van driver was approached sometime around 9pm in the Lagmore View area, in the vicinity of the roundabout.

Following a brief verbal exchange the pair, who are believed to have been under the influence, drove off in the direction of Mount Eagles Road, onto Lagmore Avenue and Teeling Avenue where the vehicle was later found abandoned.

It's understood the van collided with a parked car in the area and a male who was nearby was also assaulted. He was treated by paramedics at the scene.

A sum of money has been reported stolen from the van, while damage was caused to the dash cam.

A 23-year-old man has since been arrested on suspicion of driving with excess alcohol in his breath and taking a motor vehicle without authority.

Police also detained a 28-year-old on suspicion of driving while unfit through drink or drugs, taking a motor vehicle without authority and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Police are seeking witnesses and information regarding the incident.

Sergeant Marks said: "I want to appeal to anyone who was in the area last night and may have captured footage of the van being driven in the area, from 9pm onwards, to contact us.

"I would also appeal to anyone who has information about this incident, including the assault of a man in the Teeling Avenue area, to get in touch with us by calling 101, quoting reference number 1796 18/02/20."

Details can also be provided in confidence via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.



(JG/MH)

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