FBI Arrests Chinese Researcher for Smuggling Deadly Fungus into US
According to FBI chief Kash Patel, the FBI has arrested a Chinese researcher in the United States for allegedly smuggling a dangerous biological pathogen.
Details of the Arrest
Yunqing Jian is accused of smuggling Fusarium graminearum, a fungus that causes a devastating disease called "head blight," into the US. Jian, who worked at the University of Michigan, allegedly expressed loyalty to the Chinese Communist Party and received Chinese government funding for related research.
Boyfriend Also Charged
Her boyfriend, Zunyong Liu, also faces charges for allegedly smuggling the same fungus through Detroit Metropolitan Airport, also for research at the University of Michigan. Both are charged with conspiracy, smuggling, false statements, and visa fraud.
Impact of the Fungus
Fusarium graminearum can devastate wheat, barley, maize, and rice crops, causing significant economic losses and health issues.
Warning from the FBI
Patel warned of the CCP's attempts to infiltrate American institutions and target the US food supply, potentially endangering American lives and the economy.
