Two high-profile loyalists allegedly targeted by would-be killers in north Belfast are “playing the system”, the High Court in Belfast heard yesterday.
Counsel for one of the men accused of attempting to murder John ‘Bonzer’ Boreland and Andre Shoukri said the pair gave a press interview threatening to withdraw their police statements.
As John Bunting was refused bail for a fourth time, his barrister claimed the alleged victims’ actions called into question the reliability of their evidence. Mark Farrell said: “For whatever reason they have, they are playing the system.” Mr Bunting (47) is accused of ordering last month’s shooting as part of a feud between rival loyalist factions.
The community worker, of Stonebridge Avenue in Conlig, Co Down, was arrested along with John Howcroft (46) of Formby Park, and Darren McAllister (31) of Alliance Road – both in Belfast.
Attempted murder
All three are charged with the attempted murder of Mr Boreland and Mr Shoukri, and of possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life. Prosecutors claim the victims came under gun attack in Carr’s Glen Park in the Ballysillan area on August 20th. They said shots were fired after they got out of their car to confront men who had thrown an object at it.
Mr Justice Deeny was told Bunting allegedly instructed “get the pieces” and then gave the order: “Right, do them.”