Judge slams ‘insolence’ of loyalist drugs feud as he refuses bail to accused men

A police officer told the court that a gathering of up to 60 men on a housing estate in April was a “concerted show of strength” during the drugs feud

The five men appeared at Newtownards Magistrates’ Court (David Young/PA)

A district judge has said he has never known such an “insolent interaction” with the criminal justice process as has occurred during a loyalist drugs feud in Co Down.

Mark Hamill refused bail to five Newtownards men charged with unlawful assembly and affray in custody.