Michigan, USA – Two Chinese researchers have been charged with smuggling a dangerous biological pathogen into the United States for study at a University of Michigan laboratory, according to a federal complaint unsealed Tuesday.
Yunqing Jian, 33, and Zunyong Liu, 34, face charges including conspiracy, smuggling, visa fraud, and making false statements. The pair allegedly brought Fusarium graminearum, a toxic fungus classified as a potential agroterrorism threat, from China.
Federal prosecutors say the fungus causes widespread plant disease in crops like wheat, corn, rice, and barley, resulting in billions in global agricultural losses annually. The FBI affidavit adds that the fungus also produces toxins that can lead to vomiting, liver damage, and reproductive issues in both livestock and humans.
The researchers, described in the complaint as being in a personal relationship, did not allegedly plan to spread the fungus beyond the lab. However, authorities state that Liu deliberately concealed the pathogen in tissues in his backpack, fully aware of its restricted status.
“This type of smuggling is rare,” said Dr. Donell Harvin, former chief of homeland security for Washington D.C. “Usually, researchers try to take data or materials out of the U.S., not bring them in.”
The Justice Department emphasized the national security risk, stating its commitment to protecting the American public from foreign threats, especially those involving potential biological weapons.
The case is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan.
