In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, FBI Director Kash Patel expressed grave concerns regarding a recent case involving two Chinese nationals charged with smuggling a dangerous biological pathogen into the United States. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) as they continue to infiltrate American institutions and target the nation's food supply, potentially jeopardizing both the economy and public safety.
On Tuesday, the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan announced charges against Yunqing Jian, a research fellow at the University of Michigan, and her boyfriend, Zunyong Liu. Both individuals are citizens of the People's Republic of China and face serious allegations including conspiracy, smuggling, and visa fraud. The investigation is being spearheaded by the FBI in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
The couple is accused of smuggling a fungus known as Fusarium graminearum, categorized by scientific literature as a potential agroterrorism weapon. According to the Justice Department, this noxious fungus is responsible for head blight, affecting vital crops such as wheat, barley, maize, and rice, leading to billions of dollars in economic losses globally each year.
Beyond its economic implications, the toxins produced by Fusarium graminearum pose severe health risks, including vomiting, liver damage, and reproductive defects in both humans and livestock. The criminal complaint reveals that Jian, aged 33, allegedly received funding from the Chinese government to conduct research on this pathogen. Furthermore, her electronic devices reportedly contain information indicating her allegiance to the Chinese Communist Party.
Liu, aged 34, is said to be affiliated with a Chinese university where he also conducts research on the same pathogen. According to federal prosecutors, Liu initially lied about his actions but later confessed to smuggling the fungus into the U.S. via the Detroit Metropolitan Airport, intending to use the University of Michigan laboratory for further research.
The severity of the allegations has raised significant concerns among U.S. officials. U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgon stated that the actions of these Chinese nationals—particularly the involvement of a professed member of the Chinese Communist Party—represent a serious threat to national security. The smuggling of a potential agroterrorism weapon into the heartland of America is particularly alarming, as it could have devastating impacts on agricultural stability.
CBP Director of Field Operations Marty Raybon emphasized the importance of their role in protecting the American populace from biological threats. The charges brought against Jian and Liu highlight the critical mission of CBP in safeguarding the agricultural economy and public health from harmful biological materials.
As of Tuesday afternoon, Jian remains listed as a post-doctoral research fellow on the University of Michigan's website. Fox News Digital attempted to contact the university for a statement but did not receive an immediate response. The Justice Department has indicated that a trial cannot proceed on felony charges based solely on a complaint, and a decision regarding a felony indictment will be made upon the conclusion of the investigation.
This case is unfolding amid heightened scrutiny from the Trump administration regarding foreign nationals at U.S. universities, particularly those perceived as anti-American. Last week, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced plans to aggressively revoke student visas for Chinese nationals, especially those connected to the Chinese Communist Party or studying in critical fields.
The recent allegations against Jian and Liu are a part of a broader concern over national security and the integrity of American educational institutions. The FBI and other agencies continue to work diligently to ensure the safety and security of the American people against biological threats.
