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Two Chinese citizens have been formally accused of conspiracy and smuggling after an attempt to introduce in the United States samples of the graminearum fusarium, a fungus classified by the authorities as “A potential weapon for agroterrorism” Due to its harmful impact on plants, animals and humans. The complaint was filed by the Eastern District Prosecutor’s Office and was made public on Tuesday.

The facts date back to July 2024, when Zunyong Liu, 34 And researcher at the University of Zhejiang, was arrested at Detroit airport after discovering that he transported several samples of the fungus in question. According to the investigation, Liu planned to deliver the material to the laboratory where his partner worked,Yunqing Jian, 33, Postdoctoral researcher at the University of Michigan. Both are accused of conspiracy, smuggling of goods, false statements and visa fraud, according to the statement of the US Prosecutor’s Office.

What is the Fusarium graminearum and why does it generate alarm?

He Fusarium graminearum It is the causative agent of fusearies, a devastating disease that affects crops such as wheat, corn, barley and rice. The pathology that causes not only drastically reduces agricultural yields, but also generates toxins – known as mycotoxins – that are highly harmful to animal and human health. As detailed by the complaint, the fungus can cause “vomiting, liver damage and reproductive defects in livestock and human beings”, in addition to causing “billions of dollars in economic losses worldwide.”

Due to its ability to affect both food and public health, the pathogen is considered by the US government as a threat with potential Use in biological attacks aimed at the agri -food system.

Is the case with the Chinese Communist Party?

Some US officials have hinted at possible links between the incident and the Chinese government. The director of the FBI, Kash Patelhe said in the social network X that there is evidence that suggests that Jian “had expressed loyalty to the Chinese Communist Party and there were received financing from the Chinese government for a similar work on this pathogen “in your country of origin.

Patel stressed: “This case is an alerting reminder that the PCCH (Chinese Communist Party) is working day and night to deploy agents and researchers who will infiltrate US institutions and attack our food supply, which would have serious consequences … Gutting the American lives and our economy.

The news emerges in a context of growing tension between the United States and China. Just a few days before, the Trump administration announced its intention to revoke the visas of Chinese students with alleged connections with the Communist Party or that are enrolled in strategic disciplines. According to the senator Marco Rubiothese measures focus on those who “have links with the Chinese Communist Party” or study in “critical fields.” The plan also includes reviewing the admission criteria for future visa applicants from China and Hong Kong.