Hallowe’en gang raid house

THREE people were threatened when armed intruders burst into a house in Chadderton on Hallowe’en.

Four men, one wearing a Hallowe’en mask, entered the Park Avenue property after the front door had been left unlocked at 10pm on Sunday.

The men threatened a 23-year-old woman and her brother and his girlfriend before searching the house. They stole computers, games consoles, mobile phones, a purse and cash before leaving.

Two of the offenders are described as white, in their 20s and about 5ft 7in tall. One is of medium build, had dark eyebrows and bloodshot eyes, the other was of stocky build and was wearing a red and black Hallowe’en “Darth Maul” style mask — based on a character in a “Star Wars” film.

The other two men are also described as white and wearing dark clothing.

Witnessed

Det Con Mirza Anwar, of Oldham CID, said: “The victim and her family were clearly very frightened at being threatened by these men who were armed with a crowbar and wearing masks.

“I want to hear from anyone who witnessed the offence, has been offered any of the stolen goods or knows who is responsible to call police.

“While incidents such as this in the area are rare, I would encourage residents to keep their doors and windows locked, especially during the winter months, to keep themselves and their property as safe as possible.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Oldham CID on 0161-856 8951, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555 111.