US Treasury Sanctions Iranian LPG Smuggling Network to Asia

The US Department of the Treasury's OFAC has sanctioned a network involved in smuggling Iranian liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) disguised as Omani product to Asia. Key figures in this operation include Sarbaz Abdul Zada and Mohammad Shakol Mihandoust, who managed UAE-based front companies such as Butani Trading and ADH Energy. The sanctions target multiple entities and six vessels linked to the illicit trade. Notably, the LPG tanker Sevan was involved in transporting 750,000 barrels of LPG to Bangladesh. This action aims to disrupt the economic lifeline for Iran while exposing those complicit in the scheme. The sanctions were issued under Executive Order 13902, which specifically targets Iran's petroleum sector. The operation has raised concerns about the involvement of Chinese entities, with Shanghai Qianye Energy also being sanctioned. This follows previous sanctions targeting a different network involved in similar activities.

Key Points: • OFAC sanctioned a network smuggling Iranian LPG disguised as Omani product. • Key individuals Sarbaz Abdul Zada and Mohammad Shakol Mihandoust managed UAE-based front companies. • The sanctions include six vessels, with the tanker Sevan linked to a significant shipment to Bangladesh.