Gardai at the scene of the attack at a cottage on the Mamore Gap
ONE of the pensioners beaten by thieves in an aggravated burglary this week has been described as a “shy gentlemen who wouldn’t harm a fly.”
John Gallagher, 68, was left shaken when five masked men raided his rural cottage on the Mamore Gap in Inishowen.
Garda forensic experts have been busy collecting evidence in a bid to catch the gang responsible, believed to be operating out of Derry.
The same gang later robbed an 80-year-old woman in the townland of Ture, threatening to stuff an onion down her throat if she didn’t stop screaming.
Mr Gallagher, a sheep farmer with a small holding of land, was left “extremely distressed” by the attack.
“He wouldn’t hurt a fly; he’s a shy quiet gentleman and he’s just about the most vulnerable person they could have picked on,” said one neighbour.
“It is one of the most remote parts of the county and one of the most beautiful but there’s a feeling of darkness over the entire community because of this.”
Gateways to homes all around the area have been padlocked as fears grow over more attacks.
Garda patrols were being stepped up along the Border last night as the gangs appear to be able to strike at will.
In both Inishowen cases, men claiming to be selling furniture had visited the houses earlier in the day.
Gardai believe it was the gang members.
However very little money was taken.
“They took nothing in terms of valuables but they robbed this community of its calm and peace and we’ll never get that back,” said one resident.
Tags:
