28/07/2006

UDA announce new leadership

The Ulster Defence Association has appointed a new leadership in north Belfast, it has emerged.

It has been reported that the UDA's 'Inner Council' has claimed it has replaced the existing leadership in the north Belfast area, however this has been denied by the north Belfast brigade leaders.

The announcement comes five weeks after the 'Inner Council' expelled Andre and Ihab Shoukri in what they said was an attempt to clean up the image of the paramilitary organisation.

At present, both Shoukri brothers are currently in prison.

Andre Shoukri faces blackmail, intimidation and money laundering charges, while Ihab Shoukri is charged with UDA membership.

Both deny the charges.

(EF/SP)

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