Woman held hostage by armed gang in south Belfast

DETECTIVES are investigating after a woman was held hostage by an armed gang who forced their way in to her south Belfast home.

Four men, one carrying a knife, entered the house in the Olympia Parade area of the city shortly before 7pm on Monday.

They forced the woman, who is in her 60s, into a room while they ransacked rooms throughout her home.

She was left badly shaken but unhurt by the ordeal.

A 19-year-old man was arrested a short distance away and a PSNI spokesman said he is in custody helping police with their inquiries.

It is thought a metallic-coloured Audi A6 car seen the area at the time may be connected with the attack.

Anyone who saw the car, or anything suspicious, has been asked to contact detectives at Musgrave Street PSNI station on 0845 600 8000.