Chinese national arrested for smuggling biological materials into Michigan

In the United States, a Chinese doctoral student named Chengxuan Han has been arrested after allegedly smuggling biological materials from China to the University of Michigan. This incident marked the third case within a week involving Chinese nationals accused of similar offenses. Han reportedly sent four packages containing biological materials related to roundworms between 2024 and 2025. Upon her arrival at Detroit Metropolitan Airport on June 8, 2025, Customs and Border Protection officials conducted a standard border inspection, during which Han allegedly lied about the packages. She is now facing charges of smuggling goods and making false statements to authorities. The investigation into Han's activities highlights increased scrutiny of biological material smuggling, especially concerning items that require government permits for importation. Other recent cases include the arrest of Yunqing Jian, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Michigan, and her boyfriend Zunyong Liu, who faced similar charges related to smuggling a harmful fungus. These incidents have raised alarms about the potential implications for national security and public safety, as the materials involved have the capacity for misuse. Authorities underscored the seriousness of Han's actions, with U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. stating that such alleged smuggling operations constitute a direct threat to public safety and integrity within the nation's research institutions. The Department of Justice and FBI are continuing their investigations as they coordinate with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and ICE. The charges against Han reflect a broader pattern of concern regarding the importation of potentially dangerous biological materials amid heightened tensions to ensure the security of public institutions. Moreover, this wave of arrests signals a growing trend of federal enforcement against foreign nationals attempting to smuggle prohibited items into the U.S. The Chinese Consulate has acknowledged awareness of the cases and is assessing the situation through the proper channels. This response elucidates the complex relationship between the U.S. and China regarding academic exchanges, research collaborations, and security measures. With further scrutiny of shipping practices and stricter enforcement efforts, authorities are determined to prevent potential risks and ensure that legitimate scientific work is able to proceed without compromise.