Arrest in pensioner ambush probe

Victim was hit on head in city centre entry

A 38-year-old man has been arrested by police investigating the death of a pensioner after being mugged in Belfast city centre.

James Connor, 67, from Hartington Court died in hospital after being assaulted and robbed near Ann Street in the city centre, at about 1730 BST on Wednesday.

Police say he was attacked from behind, struck on the head, and had his wallet stolen after he fell to the ground.

A post mortem examination will be carried out to see if was murdered.

On Thursday, police released CCTV pictures of the mugger running away.

They have appealed to him to turn himself in and for any further witnesses to come forward.

Mr Connor's family are said to be "absolutely devastated" by the attack.

CCTV footage shows the attacker running away

The police said they did not believe a weapon was used in the assault at Wilson Court.

They said the robber was pursued by a member of the public and at Cornmarket the culprit threw Mr Connor's wallet into a bin.

Detectives are linking the attack to another robbery minutes later in which an 85-year-old man was struck on the head and robbed at Winecellar Entry, off High Street.

The police said the two attacks were carried out by the same individual who preyed on the victims as they left two city centre bars.

Detective Inspector Jeff Smyth has urged the suspect to "examine his conscience" and "do the right thing and give himself up".

Scenes of crime officers have carried out searches in the area as part of their inquiry. The CCTV footage is also being examined.

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