Five members of the Abu Sayyaf were killed in a military operation in Sitio Talok Talok, Capual, Sulu, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Tuesday.

Troops of the Marine Special Operations Group (MARSOG) engaged in a 20-minute firefight with members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) under sub-leader Alhabsy Misaya, leading to the death of 5 Abus.

The AFP said the encounter also led to arrest of another Abu Sayyaf member, and the seizure of 8 high-powered firearms, including 4 M-16 rifles and 4 M-14 rifles.

The bodies of the 5 fatalities were also recovered by the military.

Naval forces conducted a blockade along the waters of Capual Island for possible interception of fleeing Abu Sayyaf members.

The Joint Task Force Sulu is continuously conducting clearing and hot pursuit operations in the area.

Misaya is an ASG sub-leader based in Indana, Sulu.

"This operational success manifests the commitment of the AFP in fulfilling its mandate of bringing internal peace and security in the province of Sulu. Rest assured that we will continue to abide by the rules of engagement and contain the Abu Sayyaf Group with the assistance of the local government and the community,” said Major General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander, Western Mindanao Command.

As a sign of respect, the 5 slain Abu Sayyaf members will be given proper burial in accordance with Muslim rites.