US imposes sanctions on Mullah Nazir's militant group

US terms the group as "specially designated global terrorists", names new leader of the group under the sanctions.

WASHINGTON: The US State Department on Tuesday designated the Commander Nazir Group and its leader Malang Wazir as “Specially Designated Global Terrorists.”

In a statement, the State Department said the Nazir Group has run training camps for terrorists, dispatched suicide bombers, provided sanctuary for al Qaeda fighters and conducted cross-border operations against the US and its allies in Afghanistan. "In addition to its attacks against international forces in Afghanistan, Nazir group is also responsible for assassinations and intimidation operations against civilians in Afghanistan and Pakistan," said the statement.

Mullah Nazir was killed in a drone strike early this year, and the group has chosen Malang Wazir as part of the top leadership.

The group has also reportedly issued a statement that they would continue to support al Qaeda and attacks in Afghanistan. The group has also claimed responsibility for attacks in Pakistan.

"Malang claimed Nazir group responsibility for a March 2008 vehicle-borne improvised explosive device attack in front of an army brigade headquarters in Zari Noor, South Waziristan, Pakistan, which killed five Pakistani soldiers and injured 11 more.  In May 2011, Nazir group broke a ceasefire agreement and attacked a Pakistani army camp in Wana, Pakistan, with missiles and rockets," said the State Department.