The bloody feud between rival loyalist paramilitaries has ended and one of the organisations involved may be set to announce disbandment plans within days.
After weeks of talks involving church and community representatives from Belfast and Mid Ulster, the truce was reached between the Ulster Volunteer Force and the Loyalist Volunteer Force.
The two groups have been locked in a power struggle since the summer, claiming four lives.
The UVF has been blamed for assassinating four men since July as part of a pledge to wipe out the LVF.
But a statement issued tonight by the Reverend Mervyn Gibson, chairman of the Loyalist Commission, an umbrella organisation involving clergymen and political representatives, said both factions had agreed to silence their guns.
Rev Gibson, who was speaking on behalf of other independent activists involved in the negotiations, said: "The primary aim of the initiative was to stop further hurt and injury to any one person.
"A process of extensive talks was embarked upon independently with the UVF/Red Hand Commando (its military wing) and the LVF. "Those initiating the process had the encouragement of many within political and community life and the prayer support of individuals and churches.
"We now believe that the feud has permanently ended."
The DUP's Nigel Dodds welcomed the news but said it came too late for the bereaved families. The North Belfast MP said: "The ending of murder and bloodshed on our streets will be particularly welcome in the north Belfast area which has borne the brunt of the trouble.
"Communities have been set on edge and put into turmoil.
"I pay tribute to those who have worked so hard to bring this resolution about.
"Let us hope and pray that this announcement will be evidenced on the ground and that people's lives will return to normal."
With the violence brought to a halt, attention will now switch to the LVF's expected decision to formally stand down its members.
The organisation, which was formed by murdered paramilitary boss Billy "King Rat" Wright after he was thrown out of the UVF in 1996, has been heavily involved in sectarian killings and drug dealing ever since.
But it is understood its leadership is preparing to announce a disbandment. Loyalist sources tonight indicated that the organisation may be set to break its silence on its future within the next 48 hours.