Additional Coverage:
- Patel sounds alarm as Chinese nationals charged with smuggling ‘agroterrorism agent’ into US: ‘direct threat’ (foxnews.com)
Two Chinese Nationals Accused of Smuggling Dangerous Bio-Agent into US
Federal authorities have charged two Chinese nationals with smuggling a dangerous biological pathogen into the United States, potentially jeopardizing the nation’s food supply. FBI Director Kash Patel called the case a “sobering reminder” of the ongoing threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party.
Yunqing Jian, a research fellow at the University of Michigan, and her boyfriend, Zunyong Liu, are accused of conspiring to smuggle Fusarium graminearum, a fungus known to cause significant crop damage and pose health risks to humans and livestock. The fungus has been classified as a potential agroterrorism weapon.
According to the Justice Department, Jian received funding from the Chinese government for her work on the pathogen. Information found on her electronic devices reportedly details her membership in and loyalty to the Chinese Communist Party.
Liu, who works at a Chinese university researching the same pathogen, allegedly admitted to smuggling the fungus into the country through Detroit Metropolitan Airport. His purported goal was to conduct research at the University of Michigan laboratory where Jian worked.
The charges come amidst increased scrutiny of foreign nationals studying at American universities, particularly those with ties to the Chinese Communist Party. U.S.
Attorney Jerome Gorgon described the case as a matter of grave national security concern, highlighting the potential for the smuggled fungus to be used as a bioweapon. CBP Director of Field Operations Marty Raybon echoed these concerns, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to protecting America’s agricultural economy and national security.
Jian appeared in federal court in Detroit on Tuesday. Liu’s custody status remains unclear.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities will determine whether to pursue a felony indictment. The University of Michigan has not yet commented on the situation.