Abu Sayyaf leader killed, wanted by U.S.

MANILA, Philippines, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- Philippine forces killed a leader of the Abu Sayyaf group, who was sought by the United States in the 2000 kidnappings of Americans, a report said Sunday.

The Philippines News Agency reported the leader of the al-Qaida-linked group, identified as Abdul Mubin Sakandal, was killed in a clash with security forces in southern Philippines' island province of Tawi-Tawi. The United States had posted a $20,000 reward for his arrest.

The Filipino government, which had posted a separate reward for his capture, said Sakandal was allegedly involved in the kidnappings of foreign and Filipino citizens in 2000.

Sakandal was the brother-in-law of Khadaffy Janjalani, who was killed by government forces late last year, the PNA said.