A MAN has been left seriously injured after he was attacked by an armed and masked gang in Co. Down.
The incident happened during an aggravated burglary at a property in the Conlig area of Newtownards last night.
Detectives are now appealing for witnesses as they attempt to trace the four men involved.
"We received a report just after 11.30pm that four masked men had forced their way into a residential property on Main Street by smashing the front door," said Detective Sergeant Gray of the PSNI.
"They then attacked the occupant with weapons including a claw hammer.
"He sustained serious injuries including a number of suspected fractures and open wounds.
"He remains in hospital for treatment but, thankfully, the injuries aren't believed to be life-threatening at this time.
"The four men are described as being aged in their twenties, wearing all black and balaclavas.
"We are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen men matching this description in the area.
"We would also like to hear from anyone who may have relevant CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage."