Suspected Firearm Held to Man’s Head During East Belfast Fake Takeaway Burglary

TL;DR:
Three masked men, pretending to deliver a fake takeaway, forced entry into a home in East Belfast. One held a suspected firearm to the homeowner’s head before fleeing empty-handed. Police are appealing for witnesses.

Shocking East Belfast Burglary Involved Fake Takeaway and Suspected Firearm

Detectives in Belfast are investigating a terrifying aggravated burglary that occurred in Orby Court, East Belfast, on Tuesday night, 5th August.

The East Belfast burglary took place just after 10:35 pm when three men, pretending to deliver a takeaway, knocked on a homeowner’s door. The resident, who had not ordered any food, opened the door—only to be pushed to the ground and assaulted.

“One of the men held a suspected firearm to his head and made threats towards him, demanding money.”

Suspects Fled When Neighbours Intervened

According to Detective Sergeant Leeman, the intruders ran away empty-handed when alerted neighbours came outside after hearing the disturbance.

“We’re thankful the homeowner wasn’t seriously injured,” said the officer. “But both he and his wife have been left extremely shaken by this ordeal.”

Description of Suspects

Police say the suspects were:

• Males in their late teens
• Two wore dark-coloured tracksuits with hoods up
• One wore a light-coloured jacket and a hat
• They may have been carrying a pizza box as part of the fake delivery ruse

Police Appeal for Witnesses and Dashcam Footage

The PSNI is urging anyone who saw three males matching this description in the area, or who may have dashcam footage from that time, to come forward.

• Call 101, quoting reference number 1683 05/08/25
• Or report online: www.psni.police.uk/makeareport
• Or contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Safety Reminder for Residents

Police are advising homeowners to be cautious when opening the door to unexpected visitors, especially at night.

Q: What should I do if someone tries to force entry pretending to deliver food?
A: Close the door immediately and call 999. Do not engage.