Mozambique's government has been shaken by beheadings and other deadly attacks by suspected Islamic extremists in a northeastern region touted internationally for its offshore reserves of natural gas. Since last month, men with machetes have spread terror in several villages in Cabo Delgado province on the border with Tanzania, beheading 10 people in one attack, hacking others to death and burning vehicles and homes.
At least 24 people have died and security forces have killed 11 suspected militants, the Portuguese news agency Lusa reported.
The violence started last year and included a deadly attack on police in Mocimboa da Praia town in October, prompting the Mozambican government to launch counterterrorism operations in Muslim communities where some have complained of official neglect.
Relative calm has returned to Cabo Delgado's coastal areas after security forces increased their presence, Mozambican radio reported Monday.
