LIMA -- One of a dwindling number of Shining Path rebel leaders was killed, along
 with his wife, during a clash with military forces in Peru's northeastern jungle,
 officials said Tuesday.

 Carlos Audel Nuñez, also known as ``Comrade Manuel,'' died Saturday in the
 jungle province of Tocache, along with his wife, Mercedes Chamorro Arrieta,
 military officials said.

 Nuñez was considered the top aide to Filomeno Cerron Cardoso, who officials say
 now heads the Maoist Shining Path after the capture of the group's national
 leader, Oscar Ramirez Durand, July 14.