Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak recently opened up about a harrowing burglary incident that left him feeling “uneasy” and “unnerved.” The incident, which occurred last April, involved a gang of burglars targeting his home in Darras Hall, North Tyneside, while he was visiting a colleague. The assailants, who had previously surveilled the Newcastle United training ground, stole cash, jewellery, and Isak’s Audi car, using it as a “battering ram” to breach his property’s gates.
Alexander Isak said: “I’m a professional footballer contracted to Newcastle United Football Club. I’ve lived in the North East since August 2022 and during my initial period of time living there I had not experienced any problems with either criminal or other behaviour which negatively impacted on my wellbeing. It appeared a significant level of force had been used to attack the property. A large safe had been thrown over an upstairs balcony and an internal wall had been destroyed in order to remove the safe. My car had been used as a battering ram to force through the gates of my house. None of the property stolen from my home was recovered. The attack on my home has left me with a sense of unease and I fear it could reoccur now the thieves know the layout and entry points of my home. From what I’ve been told there has been a level of sophistication in the planning and execution of the attack on my home which I also found unnerving.”
The burglary has had a profound impact on Isak, who expressed concerns about his ongoing safety and the potential for a repeat incident. The burglars demonstrated a high level of planning and force, leaving Isak with a lingering sense of vulnerability. The stolen items, which included a large safe and Isak’s car, have not been recovered, further adding to his distress.
The incident has also affected other victims, including Stephanie Stokoe, who shared her own traumatic experience. Stokoe’s home in Whitburn was similarly targeted, resulting in the loss of “irreplaceable” gifts from her late father. The burglary left her and her two young daughters feeling unsafe and violated.
Stephanie Stokoe said: “They left us feeling unsafe in our home and what happened was a violation of our privacy and safety. My home is where my children and I should feel safe and secure. It should never be a scary place. Our peace, safety and security being taken from us is unacceptable.”
Valentino Nikolov was convicted of conspiracy to burgle, while the other three members of the gang pleaded guilty. Despite their remorse, the impact on the victims remains significant, highlighting the emotional and psychological toll such crimes can have.
The incidents have sparked discussions around security and privacy, with both Isak and Stokoe emphasizing the lasting effects on their sense of safety. As the legal proceedings conclude, the victims continue to navigate the aftermath of these violations, seeking to restore a sense of normalcy and security in their lives.
