Rebels Behead Philippine Troops

July 11, 2007

Author: Staff Writer

Source: BBC News

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/6290302.stm

Islamic militants in the southern Philippines have killed 14 marines, beheading 10 of them, a military spokesman has said.

Nine other marines were wounded and at least four rebels were killed during the incident on Basilan island.

The clash took place as the marines were searching for an Italian priest.

The priest was seized in June by kidnappers believed to be from either Abu Sayyaf or the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

Both groups are seeking an independent Islamic state in the southern Philippines.