Johnny Adair once ruled Belfast's Lower Shankill. The UDA commander struck fear into the hearts of nationalists and his loyalist rivals, as he intended.

Known as 'Mad Dog', his activities were no secret, he revelled in his status as a hardman and celebrity paramilitary enforcer - but how did he get that power and status?

The Sunday Life’s Ciaran Barnes tells the story of how Adair rose to power.

This podcast was originally published in October 2022.

The BelTel brings you some of Northern Ireland's top journalists, Allison Morris, Sam McBride and Suzanne Breen to name but a few, giving you the inside stories behind what is in the news. Presented by Ciarán Dunbar, the Bel Tel investigates, debates and informs every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

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