WASHINGTON - US authorities have arrested two Chinese nationals for smuggling a highly dangerous biological agent "Fusarium graminearum". This pathogen is considered fatal to the agricultural sector and is being described as a potential weapon of "agro-terrorism" which can pose a serious threat to the US food supply and economy.
The arrested persons include Yunqing Jian (33), who is a researcher at the University of Michigan, and Xunyong Liu (34). It is alleged that Liu smuggled this biological agent into the US through Detroit Metropolitan Airport, while Jian was planning to use it for research in the laboratory.
It is a type of fungus that spreads a disease called "head blight" in crops like wheat, barley, maize and rice. Its infection not only affects agricultural production, but it can also cause vomiting, liver damage and reproductive problems in humans and animals. This leads to losses of billions of dollars globally every year.
The two accused have been charged with conspiracy, biological smuggling, making false statements and visa fraud. Liu has been sent back to China, while Jian will be produced in court in Detroit.
FBI Director Kash Patel described the incident as a "serious warning" and said that this case shows how the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is infiltrating American research institutions and targeting the country's food supply. He praised the quick action of the FBI's Detroit Division and the US Customs Department (CBP).
The incident has come to light at a time when there are already tense relations between the US and China. The matter has become more sensitive after the Trump administration's decision to cancel the visas of Chinese students. Due to this, the demand for restarting the program like "China Initiative" has also intensified, which was earlier started with the aim of stopping Chinese espionage.
This matter has emerged as a serious threat not only to America's food security but also to national security. It makes it clear how foreign interference can affect American research institutions and resources. Experts believe that this issue can bring more tension in US-China relations in the coming days.