A burglar who broke into the home of an elderly woman in Co Down was caught by Translink staff as he tried to escape on a bus

A burglar who broke into the home of an elderly woman in Co Down was caught by Translink staff as he tried to escape on a bus.

The PSNI put out an alert to taxi operators and Translink after receiving a report of suspicious activity at an elderly woman's home on Tuesday.

A short time after the alert went out the suspect was spotted getting on a bus.

Police were alerted and they were able to stop and search the man. A number of items were recovered and he was arrested.

Police in Co Down said this was a "fine example of how, when we all come together, we get great results".

The statement said: "On the evening of July 14 we received a report of a suspicious man leaving the home of an elderly lady.

"We got a great description and this was circulated to police in the area and also to taxi operators and Translink.

"He was arrested and a number of items recovered. He has since been charged to court next month.

"We want to thank everyone involved. We do appreciate the support and confidence in us."

Belfast Telegraph