Leading loyalist paramilitary Mr Johnny Adair today showed his support for a close associate who appeared in court on gun charges.
Mr Andre Shoukri (25) a commander of the Ulster Defence Association in north Belfast, was arrested by police during a major security operation in the city.
He is accused of possessing a semi-automatic pistol and 30 rounds of ammunition along with another man, Mr William McCullough (39).
Both Mr Shoukri, of Sunningdale Gardens, and Mr McCullough from Mackey Street were remanded in custody to appear again via video-link on October 21st.
Security was tight as the public gallery at Laganside Magistrates' Court in Belfast was filled with friends of the two men. Mr Adair sat in the front row alongside Mr Shoukri's brother.
As Mr Shoukri was being led from the dock today he was greeted by a round of applause and cheers from his supporters, including Mr Adair, the Ulster Freedom Fighters' leader. Mr Shoukri, whose father is Egyptian, smiled and gave a thumbs-up signal.
A detective constable told the court that when charged Mr Shoukri made no reply. After he was accused, Mr McCullough said: "I was completely unaware of the firearm or ammunition." The detective said he believed he could connect both men with the charge.
A lawyer for both of the accused insisted his clients should be presumed innocent until proven guilty by the courts.
PA