US Sanctions Iranian LPG Smuggling Network Using UAE Front Companies and Fake Origin Declarations
The United States has sanctioned 4 individuals, 10 entities, and 6 vessels under Executive Order 13902, targeting a network engaged in the smuggling of Iranian liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and the facilitation of foreign currency transactions on behalf of sanctioned Iranian financial institutions.
LPG smuggling network. Afghan national Sarbaz Abdul Zada and Turkish national Mohammad Shakol Mihandoust operated a network of UAE-based front companies that exported millions of barrels of Iranian-origin LPG to buyers across South and East Asia, falsely representing the cargo as Omani in origin. Three front companies used in the scheme were designated: Butani Trading LLC, Dundlod Trading FZE, and ADH Energy FZE — all based in the UAE. Six LPG tankers used to transport the cargo were also identified and blocked.
LPG smuggling network. Afghan national Sarbaz Abdul Zada and Turkish national Mohammad Shakol Mihandoust operated a network of UAE-based front companies that exported millions of barrels of Iranian-origin LPG to buyers across South and East Asia, falsely representing the cargo as Omani in origin. Three front companies used in the scheme were designated: Butani Trading LLC, Dundlod Trading FZE, and ADH Energy FZE — all based in the UAE. Six LPG tankers used to transport the cargo were also identified and blocked.
- Iranian exchange house. Mehrdad Geramian Nik and Partners Company, an Iran-based currency exchange operation, was designated for moving hundreds of millions of dollars in foreign currency on behalf of sanctioned Iranian banks, including Bank Tejarat, Bank Mellat, and Bank Pasargad. The two individuals who operate the exchange house — Mehrdad Geramian Nik and Romina Geramian Nik — were also personally designated.
