Red Hand Defenders stand down

The Red Hand Defenders have ordered their members to stand down.

The move comes following the condemnation by the Ulster Freedom Fighters of recent death threats issued against Catholic workers.

The Red Hand Defenders is regarded as a cover name for elements within the UFF and the LVF.

The UFF statement, issued last night, was seen as an effort by its central leadership to regain control within its organisation.

The UDA leadership had told the Red Hand Defenders to disband within 14 days or face what it calls "the circumstances".

In a statement, the UDA also told the Red Hand Defenders to lift their threat against Catholic postal workers and teachers.

One of the men who was being questioned in connection with the murder of postal worker, Danny McColgan, has been released without charge.