FBI Charges 5 Chinese Nationals with Spying On US Military After Release

In a striking development, the FBI has charged five Chinese nationals with spying near a U.S. military base in Michigan. The agency announced the charges after the individuals were already out of custody, raising questions about the timing and effectiveness of the investigation.

The five individuals, who were students at the University of Michigan during the incident in August 2023, allegedly attempted to photograph military drills at Camp Grayling. This military installation, located about 200 miles north of Detroit, became the focal point of concern when the group was confronted by a sergeant major from the Utah National Guard in the early hours of the morning.

Although the FBI claims the suspects lied to investigators and attempted to delete photos from their phones, they have not been charged for the specific events at the military site. Gina Balaya, a spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Detroit, stated that the individuals would be arrested if they come into contact with U.S. authorities, a prospect that seems uncertain given their current status.

Critics have expressed frustration over the FBI’s priorities, suggesting that the agency is more adept at targeting political opponents than addressing genuine national security threats posed by foreign spies. The charges come at a time of heightened concern about Chinese espionage, especially following the 2017 National Intelligence Law, which mandates that Chinese citizens spy for the government if requested.

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