The leading Loyalist, Johnny Adair, has been arrested by police in Belfast. The Northern Secretary Peter Mandelson this evening suspended the licence which allowed for his early release. Mr Mandelson decided on the action after emergency talks at Hillsborough Castle where he met the Army GOC and the deputy Chief Constable of the RUC. Senior police officers told the Northern Secretary that they believed that “Mad Dog” Adair played a pivotal role in the current Loyalist feuding.
Mr Mandelson accused the former UDA leader of commissioning, preparing and instigating acts of violence. It is likely that Adair's arrest is likely to heighten the pressure in the North. However, Mr Mandelson said that he took the decision because it was time for community and political leaders to show leadership.
It is believed that Johnny Adair was arrested on the Shankill Road when a car that he was travelling in was stopped. Armed RUC officers surrounded the car and Adair and the driver were ordered out. The Loyalist leader was then arrested but the driver was told that he was free to go. Adair is being detained at Maghaberry Prison near Lisburn, County Antrim.
The Shadow Northern Ireland Secretary Andrew MacKay welcomed Mr Mandelson’s decision. He said that he hoped that it would be a warning to others. However, the Progressive Unionist Billy Hutchinson said that he feared the feud would intensify. The Progressive Unionist Party is the political wing of the UVF.
Ken Maginnis, Ulster Unionist MP claimed that Adair's arrest should signify the beginning of a major crackdown against organised crime linked to paramilitaries in the North. He said that it was a time for courage and common sense to prevail in the province and that the intimidation of decent people should not be allowed to continue.
