3 Abu Sayyaf Rebels Captured, Military Says

Government troops in the Philippines have captured three Abu Sayyaf guerrillas, including an officer in charge of the Muslim separatist group’s communications, military officials said.

In addition to holding hostages, including Americans, the Abu Sayyaf has links to exiled Saudi millionaire Osama bin Laden, the military has said. Bin Laden, who is believed to be in Afghanistan, is a prime suspect in last week’s terror attacks in the United States.

The three rebels were captured Saturday on the southern island of Basilan, where government troops have been waging a massive offensive to destroy the rebel force and rescue the hostages.