'Nothing to stop loyalist death squads' - intended victim

Loyalist paramilitaries can strike with immunity, a former IRA prisoner who survived a terrorist attack claimed tonight.

The man, who escaped injury when gunmen opened fire during an ambush on Northern Ireland’s north coast, said: ‘‘These people seem to be able to do whatever they want.

‘‘They never seem to be apprehended or caught.’’

The victim, in his 40s, was driving home from work in Ballycastle, Co Antrim when the gang struck.

Police had previously warned him his life was in danger, according to sources.

A spokesman for the new Police Service of Northern Ireland confirmed loyalist paramilitaries were being linked to the shooting.

Although no grouping was singled out, the Ulster Volunteer Force has been linked to previous attacks in the seaside town.

In August a huge car bomb was abandoned as up to 100,000 people gathered for the Auld Lammas Fair, one of Ireland’s most famous street festivals.

Security sources believe the UVF was behind that attack, which could have wreaked unimaginable havoc had it detonated.

The latest target told police he was driving home on Monday night when a shot was fired from a passing vehicle.

An examination of his van revealed single entry and exit bullet holes, police said.

The exact location where the shooting occurred had not been established.

Sinn Fein councillor Philip McGuigan said the victim has been visited three times by police officers who warned of possible attacks but refused to reveal the organisation.

‘‘The man who was lucky to escape with his life last night in this attack is a former republican PoW,’’ he confirmed.

Urging Catholics in the area to be vigilant, he added: ‘‘There has been a marked increase in loyalist activity including the attempt to bomb the Lammas Fair and now this attempted murder last night.’’

Police refused to give any details about previous threats to the man’s safety.

‘‘We do not discuss specific threats made against individuals,’’ a spokesman said.

‘‘However, when we become aware of a threat it’s our policy to inform those concerned accordingly.’’

SDLP North Antrim Assemblyman Sean Farren also denounced the attack in light of efforts to cement the Province’s peace process.

The Stormont Employment and Learning Minister said: ‘‘Attacks such as this offer no way forward and will not dissuade those of us who have our sights set on the bigger picture.’’