BackLAW
Who is Shamim Mafi? Glam Iranian entrepreneur with Green Card arrested at LAX for arms trafficking
An Iranian entrepreneur with a U.S. Green Card, Shamim Mafi, was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport on April 18, 2026, on charges of facilitating transactions involving Iranian drones, explosives, and millions of rounds of ammunition destined for Sudan. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California provided the charges. The article notes that Mafi has posted glamorous travel photos, including a Mercedes-Benz roadster.
Why It Matters
The case involves alleged illicit arms-related transactions connected to Iran and highlights potential use of international travel networks in such activities.
Timeline
2 Events
Media note: The Post reports on Mafi's glamour photos
April 19, 2026
The New York Post reported that Mafi shared glamorous photographs of herself globetrotting, including images in front of a $100,000 Mercedes-Benz roadster.
Arrest of Shamim Mafi at LAX on April 18, 2026
April 18, 2026
Shamim Mafi, 44, from Woodland Hills, was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport on Saturday evening, April 18, 2026, on charges of facilitating transactions involving Iranian drones, explosives, and millions of rounds of ammunition destined for Sudan, according to the office of the U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California.