Searches in pensioner death probe

A linked attack took place in Winecellar Entry in Belfast

Police are carrying out searches in Belfast city centre as part of an investigation into a pensioner's death.

The 67-year-old died in hospital after being assaulted and robbed on Wednesday at Wilson Court, off Ann Street.

He had been struck on the side of his head and his wallet was stolen. The police have said they are still trying to establish if he was murdered.

Detectives say the attack is linked to another robbery minutes beforehand in which an 85-year-old man was assaulted.

In that incident, at Winecellar Entry, off High Street, the pensioner was also struck on the head and robbed.

Assistant Chief Constable Wesley Wilson told BBC Radio Ulster's Nolan show that the robbery of the 67-year-old, which happened at about 1730 BST, was an opportunistic crime and everything would be done to catch the culprit.

I think it's particularly sad that someone's life has been taken in broad daylight over what is likely to be a few pounds in their wallet Naomi Long Alliance

"We don't know if it is murder yet and any post mortem later on will, maybe, clarify that for us," he said.

"But we approach all serious crimes like this as a murder scene and we deal with it as a murder until such times as that may change."

Seamus Lynch from Help the Aged called for a united approach in tackling attacks on older people.

Deputy Mayor Pat Convery of the SDLP urged anyone with information to contact the police.

"It is time that we in the city took the extra step and stood up to the criminals who are carrying out such actions," he said.

"This leaves a terrible fear within our city, particularly for older people within the community."

Suspects description

Alliance assembly member Naomi Long, said the whole community would be "completely shocked and very angry" at what had happened.

"I think it's particularly sad that someone's life has been taken in broad daylight over what is likely to be a few pounds in their wallet," the district policing partnership member said.

The cause of the man's death has not yet been established.

The robber in each case was about 30-40 years old, about 5ft 11ins tall with a heavy build and dark thin hair.

Police have appealed for anyone who witnessed either incident to contact them.