A third Chinese researcher has been arrested at Detroit airport for allegedly trying to smuggle biological samples, this time, roundworm-related material, linked to a research project at the University of Michigan. She was charged with smuggling goods into the US and giving false statements.
What Happened
Chengxuan Han, a PhD student from Wuhan’s Huazhong University of Science and Technology, was arrested on 8 June at Detroit airport after landing from Shanghai. She had planned to spend a year at the University of Michigan working on a research project. During her travel, authorities say she sent four packages with roundworm-related biological material—something that needs special permits under US law.
At first, she denied knowing about the shipments and provided misleading details. But when federal agents pressed her further, she admitted to both the contents and the act of shipping them. Authorities say one of the packages was concealed inside a book—something they consider an intentional attempt to hide what was being transported.
What the Investigations Found
Prosecutors revealed that just days before her arrival, Han erased data from her electronic devices—something investigators believe was a deliberate attempt to obstruct the inquiry.
Authorities are still investigating the intent behind the materials and whether she was acting independently or at someone’s direction.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel has shared the details of the case on his X account:
Why This Is Serious
US officials say this arrest is part of a broader federal crackdown on illegal trafficking of biological materials, especially involving people with links to the Chinese Communist Party and health-related academic institutions in the US.
Han is now the third Chinese researcher to be arrested in Michigan in recent weeks. Just last week, University of Michigan researcher Yunqing Jian and her boyfriend Zunyong Liu were charged with smuggling a crop-destroying fungus, which the FBI described as a potential attack on the US food supply.
"The guidelines for importing biological materials into the US for research purposes are stringent but clear, and actions like this undermine the legitimate work of other visiting scholars," John Nowak, who heads field operations at US Customs and Border Protection, said.
Given the sensitive nature of biological research and ongoing concerns around intellectual property and national security, unauthorized transport of such material is treated as a serious federal offence.
What’s Next
Han currently remains in custody and is expected to appear for a bond hearing on Wednesday. Further legal proceedings are likely to unfold in the coming days.
(Input From Various Sources)
(Rehash/Pooja Bansal/MSM)