Information
Two Chinese researchers, Yunqing Jian and Zunyong Liu, have been charged with smuggling the dangerous agricultural pathogen Fusarium graminearum into the US for research at the University of Michigan, according to the Department of Justice. This fungus causes “head blight,” a serious crop disease that threatens wheat, maize, barley, and rice, potentially leading to billions in global economic losses and posing health risks if it contaminates food.
The FBI alleges that Liu initially lied about smuggling the fungus but later admitted to it, while Jian received Chinese government funding and expressed loyalty to the Chinese Communist Party. The University of Michigan stated it had no Chinese funding related to the research and is cooperating with authorities. Jian is currently in jail pending a bond hearing, while Liu was returned to China after red plant material was found in his backpack at Detroit airport. The university lacked federal permits to handle the fungus, and due to no extradition treaty, Liu’s arrest in the US remains unlikely. The Chinese embassy encourages its citizens abroad to comply with local laws while vowing to protect their rights.
Source: AFP, AP
So What
While it’s possible that the reasons for introducing this fungus into the US were innocent, it’s also plausible that those involved were directed by Chinese intelligence services or they are agents. Like many operations in the grey zone, the suspects will likely continue to deny any knowledge of their actions and may ultimately be returned to the Chinese government. One thing to keep an eye on is the possibility of arbitrary detention of US citizens in China in the near future, as they may be seeking individuals to use in exchange. Regardless, it is possible that this fungus was going to be used to damage US agriculture.
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