Aggravated burglaries in Prudhoe

Police are appealing for witnesses following the burglaries, which they believe to be cases of mistaken identity.

Two addresses on Castle Road were targeted shortly after 7.30pm on Thursday, January 19.

In both incidents, three masked men entered the premises through an unlocked front door, spoke to the occupants and left.

At one address they stole a knife and a mobile phone.

The men then left in a white Fiat Ducato panel van.

The occupants of both houses were left shocked by the incident but unharmed.

Detective Sergeant Jason Kell said: "We believe both incidents were a case of mistaken identity.

"We're appealing for help from the public to identify the men and locate the vehicle they used.

"These sorts of incidents are highly unusual and we want to reassure people that they are isolated incidents."

Officers have been carrying out house to house enquiries in the area and there are additional officers on patrol to reassure residents.

Police are appealing for witnesses, anyone who was in the area and who may have seen or heard anything suspicious, is asked to contact police.

Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting reference number 978 of 19/01/17 or ring the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.