Why is he a leader?

Look at this inflammatory headline: "F.B.I. Raid Kills Islamic Group Leader in Michigan." If he were Jewish or Christian, his religion would not have been relevant. He is a small town crook. Leader? Of what and of whom? Who among the Muslims in the US have heard of this dude? I mean, if there is a gang leader who is Jewish or Christian, the New York Times would not have said "Christian group leader".