Two Chinese nationals have been charged with smuggling a dangerous fungus into the United States, according to the Justice Department. The fungus, known as "Fusarium graminearum," is classified in scientific literature as a potential agroterrorism weapon. The individuals involved are Yunqing Jian, 33, and Zunyong Liu, 34, both citizens of the People's Republic of China.

Authorities allege that Jian and Liu were receiving funding from the Chinese government for their research, which included work at the University of Michigan. The complaint states that Jian's electronic devices contained information indicating her membership in and loyalty to the Chinese Communist Party. Liu, who is said to work at a Chinese university, initially denied but later admitted to smuggling the fungus into the U.S. through the Detroit Metropolitan Airport. He intended to conduct research on the pathogen at the University of Michigan laboratory where Jian was employed.

The FBI has reported that Fusarium graminearum causes "head blight," a disease affecting wheat, barley, maize, and rice. This pathogen is responsible for billions of dollars in economic losses globally each year. U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgan expressed serious concerns regarding the actions of the two individuals, stating, "The alleged actions of these Chinese nationals -- including a loyal member of the Chinese Communist Party -- are of the gravest national security concerns."

Gorgan further emphasized that the charges reflect a significant threat to American agriculture, noting, "These two aliens have been charged with smuggling a fungus that has been described as a potential agroterrorism weapon into the heartland of America."

Marty C. Raybon, Director of Field Operations for U.S. Customs and Border Protection, highlighted the agency's role in safeguarding the nation from biological threats. He stated, "Today's criminal charges levied upon Yunqing Jian and Zunyong Liu are indicative of CBP's critical role in protecting the American people from biological threats that could devastate our agricultural economy and cause harm to humans."

Jian is scheduled to appear in federal court in Detroit for her initial hearing on the complaint. This case is still developing, and further updates are expected.