The disappearance and possible murder of Shankill loyalist Alan McCullough demonstrates that the UDA remains a ruthless and dangerous organisation, despite its supposed ceasefire.
McCullough fled Northern Ireland earlier this year after Johnny Adair's associates were driven from the lower Shankill by opposing factions of the UDA following a bitter feud.
It appears McCullough wanted to return from exile and was recently lured back to Belfast, where he believed he was not under threat, according to his family.
Despite this belief, the 21-year-old has been missing from his lower Shankill home since last Wednesday and the police are treating his disappearance as a murder investigation.
Police divers looking for a body have already searched a reservoir at the Waterworks, although nothing was found.
Other locations are also being investigated, including a boat at Carrickfergus.
A number of people arrested for questioning have been released without charge.
As the search goes on, McCullough's mother has appealed for information about her son's whereabouts, but the UDA has remained silent, as has the Ulster Political Research Group, which is linked to the outlawed group.
The feud, which involved the expulsion of Adair and the murder of John Gregg, was followed by the announcement in February of a 12-month ceasefire by the UDA.
All such statements can only be judged on actions; and abduction and murder certainly cannot be regarded as falling within the terms of a ceasefire as most people would understand it.
In this case, the UDA may be flexing its muscles and sending out a message to Adair and his supporters.
However, perpetuating the feud will only lead to retaliation, instability and heightened tensions which create fear beyond the confines of the paramilitary groups.
The case of Alan McCullough illustrates the continuing threat posed by the UDA and should reinforce demands for an end to all paramilitary activity.
