The UDA's west Belfast brigade has said it has ended "punishment" attacks. It pledged not to carry out the beatings and shootings and asked local people to bring criminal complaints to the RUC.
The announcement was welcomed by Mr Gary McMichael, the leader of the UDA's political wing, the Ulster Democratic Party, as an important step forward.
The Provisional IRA has not been involved in shootings or beatings for a fortnight, although no statement has been issued.
