A PRIEST was attacked and left locked up by a gang of youths at a Parochial House in Jonesboro last night (Wednesday).
The priest disturbed three youths at around 11.30pm. They assaulted him, before leaving him left locked up in the bathroom and making off with a sum of money.
However, the priest – named locally as Fr Dermot Moloney – managed to escape by climbing out of the bathroom window.
He was later taken to hospital for treatment to facial injuries.
Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
Newry and Armagh Sinn Fein MLA Megan Fearon said she was disgusted by the attack.
She said: “Fr Dermot Moloney, Parish Priest at St Patrick’s Church, Dromintee, was attacked last night when three armed intruders entered the parochial house. A 11.30pm Fr Moloney was alone in the house when three men broke in through the rear entrance. The men attacked Fr Moloney with a hammer before making good their escape.
“I and my colleagues Cllrs Anthony Flynn and Packie McDonald have visited Fr Moloney and he is extremely shaken by this ordeal. I am disgusted that people would target anyone in our community in this way.
“I hope that Fr Moloney recovers from his physical injuries quickly and that he has the strength of mind to put this attack behind him.
“I call on anyone with information on this robbery to contact the PSNI.”
