Two key witnesses in a murder trial have been told by the RUC that the IRA is threatening to kill them, according to the Ulster Democratic Party.
The UDP leader, Mr Gary McMichael, also said IRA members had been seen outside the men's homes earlier this week, forcing them to move out.
The trial in which they will be giving evidence cannot be identified for legal reasons. Mr McMichael yesterday said the men would not be intimidated.
IRA planned to blame any killings on Direct Action Against Drugs, which would allege the men were dealers, he said.
An RUC spokeswoman said it was not the force's policy to discuss the security arrangements of individuals.
