DUP Minister Nelson McCausland condemns the mugging of an elderly lady in north Belfast

A DUP MLA said he is “disgusted” after an 84-year-old woman was assaulted and robbery at the weekend.

The woman was walking with a friend along Somerton Road in north Belfast near the Northern Ireland Hospice on Sunday afternoon around 2.30 pm when she was mugged.

The thief stole her purse and handbag.

The elderly woman sustained a broken nose and a fractured arm when she was shoved to the ground during the attack.

Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland said the person behind the attack needed to be “caught and brought to justice”.

The DUP MLA said: “I am disgusted, angry and outraged that an 84 year old woman should be attacked and robbed on our streets.

“She was pushed the ground by her attacker who stole her purse and handbag.

“The force of the attack resulted in her suffering a broken arm and a fractured nose.

“This elderly lady lives locally in sheltered accommodation. She should be able to enjoy a Sunday afternoon stroll without fear of attack.

“An assault such as this against an elderly pensioner must be treated with the utmost gravity.

“The person or persons responsible must be caught, brought to justice and given a very severe sentence.

“Without doubt there will be someone who knows who was responsible for this despicable mugging. I appeal for them to examine their conscience and bring that information forward directly to the police.”

Anyone with information about the mugging can contact police at Antrim Road on 0845 6008000 or anonymously through the Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”