Two released in loyalist murder probe

Two men arrested in Belfast in connection with separate murders linked to a bitter loyalist feud were tonight released without charge.

A 31-year-old was detained for questioning about the murder of Craig McCausland, 20, who was shot at his girlfriend’s house in north Belfast last month. He died later in hospital.

Another man was arrested by detectives investigating the murder of Stephen Paul, 28, who was gunned down later in the month at his home a few streets from that of Mr McCausland.

The PSNI tonight confirmed that both men were released after questioning.

The loyalist Ulster Volunteer Force is suspected of carrying out both murders as part of its feud with the splinter Loyalist Volunteer Force.

The UVF is thought to have carried out all four murders in the feud – the latest on Monday – in a bid to wipe-out its rivals.

Police chiefs revealed last night that they had drafted in 160 extra officers in a bid to stop the feuding, which has also seen nearly 20 attempted murders and bombings in recent weeks.