Agroterrorism charges stem from an investigation led by the FBI
Two Chinese nationals have been charged in a high-profile federal case involving the alleged smuggling of a dangerous agricultural pathogen into the United States.
The fungus, Fusarium graminearum, is known to cause Fusarium head blight—a devastating disease that affects wheat, barley, maize, and rice, and is responsible for billions in crop losses globally each year.
Yunqing Jian, 33, and Zunyong Liu, 34, both citizens of the People’s Republic of China, face charges of conspiracy, smuggling, false statements, and visa fraud, according to a criminal complaint announced by U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. The charges stem from an investigation led by the FBI’s Detroit Division and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Jian, who was arrested by the FBI, allegedly received Chinese government funding for her research on Fusarium graminearum and worked at a University of Michigan laboratory.
The complaint further alleges that Jian is a loyal member of the Chinese Communist Party. Her partner, Liu, a researcher at a Chinese university, is accused of smuggling the fungus into the U.S. through Detroit Metropolitan Airport to conduct research alongside Jian.
“This case represents a grave national security concern,” said U.S. Attorney Gorgon. “The defendants are accused of smuggling a pathogen classified in scientific literature as a potential agroterrorism weapon into the American heartland.”
Fusarium graminearum not only threatens crop yields but also produces mycotoxins that can cause vomiting, liver damage, and reproductive issues in both humans and livestock. Its introduction into U.S. agriculture could have catastrophic consequences for farmers and food security.
Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office, emphasized the seriousness of the threat: “These individuals exploited their access to a university lab to smuggle biological pathogens, posing an imminent risk to public safety.”
CBP Director of Field Operations Marty C. Raybon added, “This case highlights the critical role of border security in protecting our agricultural economy from biological threats.”
Jian is scheduled to appear in federal court in Detroit this afternoon. Authorities stress that a criminal complaint is not evidence of guilt, and further investigation will determine whether felony indictments will be pursued.
The FBI and CBP continue to investigate the case.