U.S. authorities arrested Chengxuan Han, a Chinese doctoral student, at Detroit airport for allegedly smuggling biological material into the country. Han, associated with Huazhong University of Science and Technology, had sent four shipments from China, containing concealed biological materials related to roundworms, to a University of Michigan laboratory where she intended to conduct research for a year. During questioning upon arrival from Shanghai, Han reportedly provided false information about these shipments.
This case follows a similar incident involving two other Chinese nationals charged with smuggling a toxic fungus to the same university. One of these individuals, a researcher, was arrested and remains in custody, while the other was denied entry last year and is currently at large. Han’s shipments included biological material hidden in book pages and necessitated government permits for importation. Biologist Michael Shapira noted that while the substances do not appear dangerous, regulations for shipping biological materials must be adhered to.
Additionally, Han reportedly deleted content from her electronic device three days prior to her arrival in the U.S., claiming she wanted a “fresh start.” She is currently in custody awaiting a bond hearing. The Chinese Embassy and the University of Michigan have not provided immediate comments on the situation. The university has emphasized its cooperation with federal law enforcement and condemned actions that threaten national security or impede its mission. The Chinese government maintains that citizens abroad should comply with local laws while safeguarding their rights.
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