China launches crackdown in Xinjiang

Chinese security forces have launched a two-month "strike hard" crackdown against violence, terrorism and radical Islam following fresh ethnic violence in the restive western region of Xinjiang.

The campaign began on 11 August and will last until 15 October, and includes around-the-clock patrols of trouble spots, identity checks and street searches of people and vehicles, according to a notice on the regional government's website.

"Public security units at all levels across the region must strengthen the work of security, take strict precautions, and create fear and awe," the statement said.

The crackdown follows new outbreaks of violence blamed on militants among Xinjiang's native Uighur population.