Robo, that's absolutely correct. The IRA and loyalist gangs run all the drugs etc. and do all the same sort of crap like intimidation, torture and murder that the Mob would. It's bilateral - the IRA and loyalist paramilitaries just provide a convenient cover for the thugs of both sides.

At one time this wasn't the case, but the paramilitaries on both sides have long since ceased to have any political meaning.

Personally I reckon it's a bit crap that they'd just say this and not back it up though. If they know something, then tell us, don't just say "oh, I'm sure it was them". I don't mind them saying that the paramilitary gangs are suspects - you'd be stupid to rule them out - but to pick one group out without giving evidence just makes you look biased and gives ammunition for all the bigots out there (which means every NI politician).

Graham.