A 28-year-old man has been charged following a series of break-ins at a shopping centre in Newry, County Down, and is due to appear before Armagh Magistrates' Court on Tuesday 10 November. The Police Service of Northern Ireland confirmed the charges on Monday 9 November.

Police received a report at around 7.40am on Sunday 8 November about a break-in at commercial premises in the Buttercrane Quay area of the city. Officers found tills strewn across a shop floor and two windows smashed. Further break-ins were discovered at other premises in the centre, with games machines damaged and stuffed toys reported missing.

Arrest after CCTV review

After reviewing CCTV footage, officers arrested a 28-year-old man in The Mall area of Newry as he attempted to make off. Chief Inspector Ruston said two officers were assaulted during the arrest, with one headbutted and another kicked on the knee. Both officers remained on duty.

The man has been charged with aggravated burglary and stealing, possessing an article with a blade or point in a public place, going equipped for burglary, two counts of assault on police and disorderly behaviour. As is usual procedure, the charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.

Safer Business Action Week under way

The arrest comes as the PSNI takes part in Safer Business Action Week, which began on Monday 9 November. The initiative brings together police, businesses and communities to prevent crime against local traders, with high-visibility patrols and advice on reducing retail crime across Northern Ireland.

Police are continuing their enquiries and have asked anyone with information to contact them on 101 or through the PSNI witness appeal form, quoting reference 342 of 08/11/26. Information can also be given anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. The charges are allegations and do not establish guilt; no plea or court outcome has been reported.

The police statements have not named the man charged or the individual businesses affected, and no estimated cost of the damage or property taken has been published. The PSNI has advised businesses generally to report incidents promptly, maintain CCTV systems, preserve relevant information and review security and access procedures, and to prioritise employee safety.