Chinese pair accused of smuggling 'dangerous biological pathogen' into US
Share this @internewscast.com

Two Chinese nationals are accused of smuggling a “potential agroterrorism weapon” via a noxious fungus into the mid-western US.

Yunqing Jian, 33, and Zunyong Liu, 34, both citizens of China, have been charged with conspiracy, smuggling goods into the US, making false statements, and visa fraud, as announced by officials today.

It is the second time in a week that a Chinese national with ties to the University of Michigan has been charged in a federal investigation.

These toxic plant pathogens were allegedly stashed in the backpack of a Chinese scientist who entered the US last year, (US District Court For The Eastern District Of Michigan) (Public Domain)

Authorities described the fungus as a harmful pathogen causing ‘head blight,’ which affects wheat, barley, maize, and rice, leading to billions of dollars in global economic losses each year. The toxins produced by Fusarium graminearum can cause vomiting, liver damage, and reproductive issues in both humans and animals.

According to the complaint, Jian received Chinese government funding for her work on this pathogen in China.

The complaint also alleges that Jian’s electronics contain information describing her membership in and loyalty to the Chinese Communist Party.

Further allegations indicate that Jian’s boyfriend, Liu, who researches the same pathogen at a Chinese university, initially denied but later confessed to smuggling Fusarium graminearum through Detroit Metropolitan Airport. His intention was to pursue research on it at the University of Michigan laboratory where Jian was employed.

Jian was scheduled to appear on today in the federal court in Detroit.

CBS News Detroit has reached out to the University of Michigan for comment.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Why Skipping Travel Insurance Could Cost Australians More Than They Think

The Australian government’s official travel advisory service says taking out travel insurance…
Top UN court says Israel must allow UN relief agency to supply Gaza aid

International Court of Justice Mandates Israel to Permit UN Relief Agency Access for Gaza Aid Distribution

The International Court of Justice says Israel must allow the UN aid…
The shopper found the Cadbury block of chocolate for sale for NZD$4.50 at a Woolworths in New Zealand

Woolworths’ Pricing Discrepancy Sparks Debate as Iconic Australian Product Found Cheaper in New Zealand

Woolworths customers in Australia have expressed frustration upon learning that a beloved…
The Burke Street Optus store.

Optus Executives Depart Following Triple-Zero Outage Crisis: A Leadership Shakeup

In the aftermath of the recent triple-zero service disruption, Optus announced the…

Trump’s Ceasefire Speech Omits Key Group’s Claims of Continued Violence

The “historic dawn of a new Middle East”. Trump’s address came after…
COVID-19 vaccine cancer study mrna

Groundbreaking Study Reveals mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine Potentially Extends Lifespan for Cancer Patients

COVID-19 mRNA vaccines could help cancer patients live longer by helping the…
Millions in the firing line of record-breaking heat

Unprecedented Heat Wave Puts Millions at Risk

Queensland is currently experiencing a severe heatwave, prompting authorities to urge residents…
North Korea's stolen crypto billions revealed

North Korea’s Crypto Heist Exposed: Billions in Stolen Digital Assets Uncovered

North Korean hackers have managed to steal billions by infiltrating cryptocurrency exchanges…
New Zealand primary school teacher Jordan Shallcrass revealed her ultimate art class hack in the Ryobi USB Lithium Power Cutter, available for $89 at Bunnings

School Teacher’s Discovery Turns Bunnings Gadget into Must-Have Item: ‘A True Game Changer

A primary school teacher in New Zealand has uncovered a surprising crafting…
Prince Andrew

UK Prime Minister Supports Investigation into Prince Andrew’s Rent-Free Lease at Royal Lodge

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has thrown his support behind an inquiry…
US military kills two people in strike on suspected drug boat in Pacific

US Military Conducts Lethal Strike on Suspected Drug Vessel in Pacific, Two Killed

The United States military executed its eighth operation against a suspected drug-trafficking…

Lidia Thorpe Submits NT Attorney-General to Corruption Watchdog Over Alleged Court Interference

Senator Lidia Thorpe has filed a report with the NT Independent Commission…