Adair faction defies UDA leadership

Supporters of Johnny Adair today defied Ulster Defence Association demands that they should withdraw their support for the jailed loyalist terror boss.

As the bitter feud between Mr Adair’s faction in the UDA and the organisation’s leadership continued, a statement from his battalion in West Belfast said they would meet any attacks against them with “a measured military response”.

The statement from the West Belfast based Second Battalion C Company of the Ulster Freedom Fighters said: “In response to yesterday’s statement by the so-called main stream UDA/UFF, we, the Second Battalion C Company, are determined to resist any interference in our affairs or threats against our officers and members.

“As such, any acts of aggression towards C Company personnel will be met with a measured military response against the aggressors.

“While C Company will continue to seek a resolution to the present impasse and difficulties we are determined and resolute in ensuring the safety of our officers and members.”

Johnny Adair’s C Company has been blamed for the murders of South Antrim UDA Brigadier John Gregg and another member of the organisation, Robert Carson, who were shot in Belfast on Saturday as they returned from a Glasgow Rangers match.

Mr Carson, a 33-year-old father of one, will be buried today at Carnmoney cemetery after a funeral service at his family home.

A taxi driver wounded in the docklands shooting remains seriously ill.