US Resident Arrested for Allegedly Spying on Pro-Democracy Activists for China
A 67-year-old resident of Queens, New York, named Yuanjun Tang, has been charged and arrested for allegedly spying on pro-democracy activists and dissidents in the United States on behalf of China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS). The Department of Justice (DoJ) and FBI announced the charges, stating that Tang acted as a Chinese agent between 2019 and 2023.
Allegations and FBI Investigation
According to the DoJ, Tang was under the direction of the MSS, China’s primary intelligence agency responsible for espionage and political security. Tang’s activities involved monitoring and gathering information on individuals critical of the Chinese government, particularly those advocating for democracy and human rights.
In addition to the espionage charges, Tang is accused of making false statements to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). During their investigation, Tang allegedly lied about his ability to access an email account that he had used to communicate with his MSS handler through draft emails. These draft emails were part of a method to avoid detection by authorities, as they were never sent but could be accessed by multiple parties with the account’s login credentials.
Legal consequences
Tang’s arrest and charges underscore the growing concerns about foreign influence and espionage activities within the United States. If convicted, Tang could face significant legal penalties, including a lengthy prison sentence, for his actions as a foreign agent and for obstructing the FBI’s investigation.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by U.S. authorities to combat foreign interference and protect the rights and safety of individuals within the country, particularly those who are targeted for their political beliefs and activism.