Manila: Philippine security officials said the two final surviving leaders of a deadly siege in the south, including a top Asian terror suspect, were killed on Monday in one of the final battles by thousands of troops to retake the last area held by pro-Daesh militants in southern Marawi city.
Four military and police officials said that Isnilon Hapilon, who is listed among the FBI’s most-wanted terror suspects, and Omarkhayam Maute were killed in a gun battle and their bodies were found Monday in Marawi.
The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not allowed to make a public announcement yet of the latest developments in Marawi.
Military leaders had said in September that three leaders of the militants who besieged the southern city in May were killed in the months of fighting but the two still alive were leading a final stand.
At least 17 hostages, including an infant and women, were rescued by troops in the scene of the battle, which the officials said may finally end this week.
