Chinese scholars charged with smuggling biological materials into US under research cover
**Three Chinese Scholars Charged With Smuggling Biological Materials into U.S. via University Research**
The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced Wednesday that three Chinese national scholars have been charged with conspiring to smuggle biological materials into the United States while working at a university laboratory.
The scholars allegedly made false statements to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers to import materials related to roundworms from China under the “guise” of research at the University of Michigan, authorities said.
“Allegedly attempting to smuggle biological materials under the guise of ‘research’ is a serious crime that threatens America’s national and agricultural security,” Attorney General Pam Bondi said in a statement.
### Suspects Identified
The agency identified the suspects as Xu Bai, 28, Fengfan Zhang, 27, and Zhiyong Zhang, 30. All three were participating in J-1 visa academic exchange programs.
### Pattern of Alleged Misuse in U.S. Academic Programs
According to U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgen, these charges stem from a broader pattern of alleged misuse within U.S. academic programs, specifically involving international researchers.
“These three men are part of a long and alarming pattern of criminal activities committed by Chinese nationals under the cover of the University of Michigan,” Gorgen said in a statement. He also extended thanks to the FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and CBP for their assistance in the case.
### Background of the Case
The three scholars conducted research at the University of Michigan’s Shawn Xu Laboratory in Ann Arbor. They allegedly received multiple shipments of concealed biological materials related to roundworms from a Chinese Ph.D. student in Wuhan, China, Chengxuan Han.
Han had previously worked at the university but was convicted of smuggling and making false statements before being removed from the U.S.
Following Han’s removal, the university launched an internal investigation. When the three scholars refused to cooperate, they were terminated, which made them eligible for deportation.
### Incident at JFK Airport
Before an October 16 flight to China from John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City, CBP stopped the men for inspection.
Zhiyong Zhang allegedly provided false information about Han, while Xu Bai and Fengfan Zhang admitted to receiving packages even after Han’s removal.
### Statements from Officials
“This case underscores the vital importance of safeguarding the American people and addressing vulnerabilities within foreign student and exchange visitor programs,” said ICE Director Todd M. Lyons.
“Educational institutions must enhance their admissions procedures to prevent exploitation, which can pose risks to national security. I commend the ICE HSI agents and officers who work tirelessly to protect our nation and uphold the rule of law every day,” Lyons added.
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized that “academic research cannot excuse illegal activity,” while CBP Director of Field Operations Marty C. Raybon warned that “foreign actors continue to seek ways to exploit vulnerabilities, including within our nation’s higher education system to advance their agendas.”
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*Stay informed on developments regarding national security and academic integrity.*
https://www.foxnews.com/us/chinese-scholars-charged-smuggling-biological-materials-us-under-research-cover
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