Chinese Nationals Charged with Smuggling Agroterrorism Agent into U.S.
Two Chinese nationals have been charged with smuggling a dangerous crop-killing pathogen into the U.S., according to federal authorities. The couple, Yunqing Jian and her boyfriend Zunyong Liu, allegedly concealed Fusarium graminearum, a fungus that has devastating health effects on humans and causes billions of dollars in economic losses globally, in their luggage during multiple attempts, including hiding it in their boots and other items.
Jian, a post-doctoral research fellow at the University of Michigan, first brought the fungus to the U.S. in August 2022. According to a transcribed WeChat conversation cited in an arrest affidavit, Liu instructed Jian on how to smuggle the pathogen, which is classified as a ‘potential agroterrorism weapon.’ Jian initially attempted to transport the fungus in her boots, using a small ziplock bag, according to the affidavit.
Further attempts included sending the pathogen through a third party. In January 2024, Jian allegedly arranged for a third party to package and ship the fungus, which was hidden in a statistics textbook, but was intercepted before it reached its destination. In July 2024, Liu entered the U.S. at Detroit Metropolitan Airport on a tourist visa, claiming to be visiting his girlfriend Jian, but was apprehended by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Upon inspection, investigators discovered a wad of tissues inside Liu’s backpack, which concealed a note in Chinese and various items. Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of Fusarium graminearum, including a DNA sequence that matched the pathogen. Liu later admitted to intentionally smuggling the fungus, revealing his plan to use the same laboratory at the University of Michigan where Jian conducted her research.
FBI Director Kash Patel described the case as a ‘sobering reminder’ of the Chinese Communist Party’s alleged efforts to infiltrate U.S. institutions and target the food supply. The potential impact of smuggling such a pathogen could be catastrophic for the U.S. economy and public health, according to Patel. The University of Michigan issued a statement condemning any actions that threaten national security, noting it has not received funding from the Chinese government in relation to the research involved and that it remains committed to cooperating with law enforcement.
The case has sparked heightened concerns over biological threats and the potential misuse of research by foreign entities. It highlights the risks associated with international collaborations in scientific research and the need for stringent security measures. As investigations continue, the implications of this case for U.S. national security and international relations are expected to be significant.