Abu Sayyaf Leader Killed in Philippines.

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines - Six members of the Muslim extremist Abu Sayyaf group, including a senior leader wanted by the United States, were killed in a clash Thursday with Philippine troops on southern Basilan island, officials said.

Hamsiraji Sali, one of five Abu Sayyaf leaders wanted by Washington for the deaths of two American hostages, was among the six killed by a Scout Ranger platoon in Basilan’s Isabela town, military spokesman Lt. Col. Daniel Lucero said.

Four troops were wounded in the gunfight, which erupted at noon in the village of Makiri.

An official from the military’s Southern Command said a civilian tipped off the soldiers on the location of Sali’s group, but that the rebels apparently got wind of the military’s plan to raid their hideout and were able to retaliate.