Loyalist's taxi firm is targeted

One of the taxi drivers suffered facial injuries

A taxi firm owned by a prominent Belfast loyalist has been targeted in a series of attacks.

Former PUP member Jackie Mahood told the BBC five drivers from his north Belfast firm Call-A-Cab had their cars hijacked at gunpoint and set on fire.

Three other cars were burned at the homes of the drivers. The UVF is being blamed for the attacks.

Mr Mahood said the attacks were part of "an orchestrated campaign to destroy his business".

Drivers had their vehicles taken at gunpoint in Enfield Parade, Highfield Drive and Glencairn Road at 1900 GMT on Saturday.

One of the men suffered facial injuries when he was assaulted. He was taken to hospital for treatment, but has since been discharged.

Police have appealed for witnesses to contact them.