Three people robbed in 'terrifying' incidents in city

Three people were robbed in the early hours of Saturday morning in Belfast city centre.

The incidents happened in or near Great Victoria Street and Ormeau Avenue between 04:50 and 06:00 BST.

Two of the victims were assaulted.

Police described the incidents as terrifying for the victims but said none were seriously injured.

In the first incident a man in his 20s said he was punched by two men in Great Victoria Street shortly before 05:00 BST.

He told police a third man acted as a lookout and the three men made off with his wallet.

Shortly afterwards, a man in his 30s reported being assaulted by two men in Stroud Street.

He was treated in hospital for a head injury.

At about 05:50 BST a woman in her 20s said she was approached by two men on Ormeau Avenue.

They demanded her handbag which she handed over.

Det Sgt Leeman said the suspects were described as being in their 20s, with Belfast accents.

They were wearing dark clothing and trainers.

"It is absolutely unacceptable that people going about their business should be robbed and assaulted," the detective said.

"Our enquiries are ongoing and we are actively exploring a possible link between these three reports.

"We would encourage anyone who may have witnessed suspicious behaviour in and around these times to contact us.

"The city would have been quiet so early in the morning, and unusual activity may have stood out."