Chinese Nationals Accused of Smuggling Potential Agroterror Pathogen into the US
ISLAMABAD: U.S. federal authorities have charged two Chinese nationals for allegedly smuggling a dangerous biological fungus into the United States — a substance that experts warn could be used as an agricultural terrorism weapon. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed that the fungus, identified as Fusarium graminearum, is capable of inflicting devastating damage on crops and causing billions of dollars in economic losses worldwide.
The DOJ stated that the fungus, also known for causing “head blight” in grain crops like wheat and barley, is considered in scientific circles as a potential agroterrorism agent due to its impact on food security. The U.S. has strict regulations on the transport of such pathogens, especially when they have dual-use potential — for both legitimate research and malicious purposes.
Research Cover Used for Unauthorized Pathogen Import
According to a federal criminal complaint filed by the FBI, 34-year-old Zunyong Liu — a Chinese researcher — smuggled the fungus into the U.S. during a visit to his girlfriend, Yunqing Jian, in July 2024. Jian, 33, was affiliated with a research laboratory at the University of Michigan, where Liu intended to study the fungus informally.
The FBI claims that the two had been discussing their plans and lab work via electronic communications well before Liu’s arrival. These conversations included references to shipping biological material and conducting unauthorized research — serious red flags for federal investigators.
Legal Charges and National Security Concerns
Both individuals now face multiple federal charges, including conspiracy, smuggling, false statements, and visa fraud. FBI officials emphasized that the pair’s actions constituted a “direct threat to public safety,” especially considering the potential for misuse of the biological agent.
Yunqing Jian appeared in court in Detroit on Tuesday, where a public defender was appointed to represent her. Liu remains in China. The University of Michigan has not issued a public statement on the matter.
The case underscores growing concerns about biosecurity and the misuse of scientific research for potentially harmful purposes.
