Tensions remain high in the loyalist community in north Belfast today after a failed attempt to overthrow UDA leaders in a fall-out over money.
Leading loyalist Mr Jim Simpson, known as "the Bacardi brigadier", is believed to have fled to Scotland after he failed to overthrow the leadership of the Ulster Defence Association in north Belfast.
Security sources revealed today that several loyalists had taken part in the coup under the mistaken belief that it was sanctioned by the UDA leadership.
The source confirmed: "There was an attempt in north Belfast yesterday by several senior people to reassert their control but the main body of the UDA did not follow behind them.
"Some people believed this had been sanctioned by the UDA leadership but it hadn't been. Some of those involved were surprised to learn that it hadn't and have since apologised to the UDA leadership.
"UDA leaders appear to be quite confident that the people who left north Belfast will not return but nevertheless the situation is very tense and will remain so until the situation is resolved," the source said.
Mr Jim Simpson was removed as the Brigadier of the UDA in north Belfast last year.
Jailed loyalist Mr Andre Shoukri is believed to have taken over, with another loyalist running north Belfast on the outside while he remains in prison.
Several houses and business premises were attacked yesterday in the Ballysillan and Glenbryn districts of north Belfast during the coup.
A loyalist source who witnessed the violence said: "All hell broke loose and they tried to trap people in their homes. But we were able to get them released and those behind the coup have now learned it was a senseless step to take."