FOUR balaclava-clad burglars, armed with a stun gun, forced their way into a house in Church.

Detectives have now launched an investigation after two teenagers, who were in the house, in York Street, at the time of the incident, were threatened.

The victims, aged 14 and 17 years old, were forced to hand over their wallets containing cash and credit cards.

The gang then fled the house, before driving off in a dark-coloured vehicle, possibly a Golf, or an Astra, in the direction of Lion Street, police said. Nobody was injured in the burglary which took place on Sunday, at around 7.30pm.

The incident was not reported to police until Monday lunchtime.

Detective Inspector Jill Johnston, of Accrington CID, is now appealing for anyone who saw anything suspicious to contact the police.

She said: “This is a serious incident.

“I urge anyone who has any information whatsoever about this incident, or anyone who knows the identity of the four men, to come forward.

“I would also urge anyone who saw a suspicious vehicle in the York Street, or Lion Street area, around 7.30pm on Sunday to contact police.”

Anybody with information should call police on 101.

Alternatively, anyone with information can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.