THE shooting of a man in Belfast last week was drugs-related and probably linked to the UVF, it was alleged in the High Court in Belfast yesterday.
The claim was made by a Crown lawyer opposing a bail application by Mr Mark Haddock (23), of Knockeden Crescent, Belfast, who is accused of attempted murder.
The lawyer said the 25-year-old victim was shot twice in the chest as he sat in his car in the Cregagh estate. He was under armed guard in hospital but could not be interviewed as his condition remained "very seriously ill."
"The police believe he is involved in drugs, that the shooting was drugs-related and linked to loyalist paramilitary activities, probably the UVF."
Lord Justice MacDermott said he was satisfied Mr Haddock had a case to answer and he refused bail.