Two Chinese nationals, under suspicion of smuggling biological materials into the US, appeared in court on Friday. Federal authorities aim to keep them detained, citing “national security” concerns.

University of Michigan post-doctoral research fellow Yunqing Jian and Chengxuan Han, a student from Huazhong University of Science and Technology, were ordered to remain in custody as their individual cases continue.

In the hearing, Han, charged with sending packages containing biological materials to the University of Michigan’s laboratory, appeared visibly upset, choking back tears upon learning her preliminary hearing would be delayed.

In her brief detention hearing Friday, Han’s attorney said her client is consenting to detention without prejudice and will remain in federal custody. 

A package seized by CBP agents allegedly contained eight Petri dishes containing biological materials mailed by Chengxuan Han. (Department of Justice)

“The alleged smuggling of biological materials by this alien from a science and technology university in Wuhan, China – to be used at a University of Michigan laboratory – is part of an alarming pattern that threatens our security,” Gorgon said in a statement. “The American taxpayer should not be underwriting a PRC-based smuggling operation at one of our crucial public institutions.”   

Fox News’ Olivianna Calmes and Peter D’Abrosca contributed to this report.