Newcastle aggravated burglaries link possible: Police
Three men aged 28, 30 and 33 have been arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary after two incidents which police say may be linked.
Residents in two houses in Kenton Bank Foot, Newcastle, were hit over the head by intruders.
Both men needed treatment at the Royal Victoria Infirmary for head injuries. One has been released.
Det Insp Steve Wouldhave said the force treated attacks on people in their own homes "extremely seriously".
"Incidents of this nature are rare, however we have increased uniformed patrols in the area and are speaking with local residents to allay their fears," he added.
Police say two intruders broke into a house on Station Road shortly after midnight on Saturday.
They demanded money but left empty handed.
The 67-year-old man who lives in the house was hit on the head with what is believed to be bolt cutters.
At about 04:00 GMT two men forced their way into a house at Thornbury Close, which is less than a mile away, and hit a 48-year-old man on the head with a heavy blunt instrument.
A Vauxhall Astra and television which were taken from the house were recovered by police in Eastgarth, Newbiggin Hall.
Police are asking anyone with information to contact them.