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Scores of machete-wielding young men stormed security outposts in southern Thailand early on Wednesday. You may find some of the following pictures disturbing.

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The men, suspected Islamic militants, were soon overpowered by security forces. More than 100 were killed.

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It was the bloodiest day of fighting since violence resurfaced in the region in January.

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Troops stormed a mosque in the province of Pattani, reportedly firing tear gas and grenades.

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More than 30 armed men who had taken refuge inside the mosque were killed by security forces.

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Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra insisted local gangs were behind the violence.

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But evidence such as this T-shirt (emblazoned with the words JI - possibly standing for the militant group Jemaah Islamiah) suggest otherwise.

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Security is still high throughout the troubled southern region as night falls.