The Mozambican authorities say 90 people have died in all since Islamist militants attacks began last year in the north of the northern province of Cabo Delgado.

The group, known locally as al-Shabab, was formed in 2015 as a religious organisation and has no known links to the Somali jihadist group of the same name.

It is believed to be making millions of dollars from selling timber and rubies.

The head of Mozambique's police force, Bernadino Rafael, said security forces are making progress in fighting the group:

"We have deactivated jihadist camps We have also detained 280 wrongdoers, 180 of whom are now on trial.

"The defence and security forces continue working to ensure that people who live in conflict prone areas work with us. All 28 million Mozambicans need to help to win this fight against the insurgents.”