Interfaith clashes erupted in the Tanzanian town of Buseresere this week, leading to the beheading of a pastor and the injury of several citizens, Tanzania's Daily News reported Tuesday (February 12th).

Denis Stephano, spokesman for the Geita Regional Police Commander's Office, said Muslim leaders are believed to have demanded the immediate closure of butcheries owned by Christians in the area. After the directive, a group of youth assumed to be Muslims attacked a butchery owner and several Christians with machetes and sticks, Stephano said.

Pastor Mathayo Kachili of the Tanzanian Assemblies of God Church was beheaded in the confrontations.

Riot police dispersed the crowd and the situation has returned to normal, Stephano said, adding that Chato District Commissioner Rodrick Mpogolo visited the scene and called on area residents to avoid conflict and seek mutual tolerance between the two faiths.