Massive $4 billion Iranian sanctions evasion network uncovered behind illegal gambling and crypto scheme

A Reuters investigation has exposed a massive Iranian sanctions evasion network operating through a Dubai-based, unlicensed cryptocurrency exchange named Shelbit.

The exchange has processed over $4 billion since May 2024, serving as a critical financial hub that links a Farsi-language illegal gambling network of over 2,000 websites, Iran’s central bank, state-backed bitcoin mining operations, and entities tied to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Despite strict prohibitions against gambling under Iranian law, the vast network utilises Iran’s central bank-regulated online payments system, allowing sanctioned entities and illicit networks direct access to global crypto markets and major international exchanges.

Fronted by prominent Iranian influencers Sasha Sobhani and Pooyan Mokhtari, who promote the gambling sites to millions of social media followers while flaunting lavish lifestyles abroad, the operation is considered one of the largest illegal gambling and sanctions evasion schemes ever identified.

Regulatory and law enforcement agencies have begun taking action against the network. Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) issued a cease-and-desist order against Shelbit for anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing violations, while the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) confirmed it is actively investigating the network’s digital asset transactions.