Seven rebels killed in RP

Seven rebels killed in RP

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines (AFP): A soldier and seven members of a Philippine Muslim group holding an American and a Filipino hostage were killed in a clash, the military said on Tuesday.

Three other government troops were wounded in the fighting, on the southern island of Jolo, regional military spokesman Col. Hilario Atendido said.

It erupted last Sunday after elite Army Scout Rangers stormed an Abu Sayyaf hideout in the village of Pansol. Atendido said the soldiers were met with strong resistance by some 140 fully armed Abu Sayyaf rebels, but later overran the camp.

Reports said seven rebels were killed. There were no signs of either of the two hostages still held by the group, American Jeffrey Shilling and Filipino dive instructor Roland Ullah, Atendido said.

The Philippine government rejected on Monday appeals from Shilling to resume negotiations with the Abu Sayyaf for his freedom, saying the military was only prepared to discuss an Abu Sayyaf surrender.