Case 080: Karl Lee | The Shadow Supplier Behind Iran’s Missiles

Li Fangwei, better known as Karl Lee, is a Chinese fugitive accused of fueling Iran’s ballistic missile program. For years, Lee allegedly hid behind a web of front companies, funneling millions of dollars in restricted materials in violation of U.S. sanctions. In 2014, the FBI unsealed federal charges and placed him on its Most Wanted list, but the trail didn’t end there. A 2023 indictment revealed that his proliferation network still operates, with associates continuing to supply sensitive materials to Iran. This episode follows the hunt for Karl Lee, the man who became one of the world’s most elusive weapons suppliers—and the global efforts to dismantle his empire.This is Fugitive Files. Let’s get into it.