08/08/2002

Top loyalist's son shot in paramilitary-style attack

The son of prominent loyalist Johnny Adair has been shot in a paramilitary-style attack.

Seventeen-year-old Jonathon Adair was shot in both legs at around 11.45pm last night at Florence Square, off the Crumlin Road, in west Belfast. He was taken to the Mater Hospital for treatment.

Local sources say it is likely that the shooting was carried out by the UDA, which is linked to Johnny Adair's 'C' company of the Ulster Freedom Fighters (UFF). If true, then the attack would almost certainly not have occurred without the knowledge of the UFF.

John White, a former spokesman for the now defunct Ulster Democratic Party which was linked to the UDA – and close associate of the Johnny Adair – said that he "wouldn't be surprised" if the UDA or UFF were responsible for the shooting, but he refused to speculate further. He added that Mr Adair was upset by the shooting.

Johnny Adair is the most recognisable and prominent loyalist of recent times. He was sentenced in 1996 to serve 16 years for 'directing terrorism'. Whilst in the Maze Prison, he met then Secretary of State Mo Mowlam and was instrumental in securing loyalist support for the Good Friday Agreement.

It has been rumoured that Mr Adair is considering running for an assembly seat at the next elections – which are scheduled for May 2003.

(GMcG)

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