Troops engaged around 150 Abu Sayyaf members led by top leader Radullan Sahiron and sub leaders Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan, Yasser Igasan and Mujer Yadah in Bud Taming, Barangay Kabbontakkas in Patikul.
Aside from the confirmed deaths, the almost two-hour gunfight also resulted in six Abu Sayyaf members and 21 soldiers injured.
Two soldiers in need of immediate medical attention were airlifted to Camp Navarro General Hospital in Zamboanga City.
Pursuit operations are still ongoing, according to the military.
