FBI, CDC Ignored Concerns Over California-Based Chinese Biolab Containing Deadly Pathogens
The FBI and CDC Neglected to Thoroughly Investigate a California Biolab Operated by Chinese Nationals
A new report reveals that the FBI and CDC failed to properly investigate a biolab in Reedley, California, operated by Chinese nationals and containing deadly transmissible pathogens. The findings, released by the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, shed light on the experiments conducted by Chinese nationals under the supervision of a man connected to Beijing’s communist government.
“This report outlines troublesome gaps that exist in federal law that allow bad actors to take advantage of the system,” said Rep. Jim Costa, D-Calif., whose district includes Reedley. “It is my hope no other town in any Congressional district will endure what my constituents have through this experience.”
A Shocking Discovery
The scandal began when Jesalyn Harper, a local code enforcement officer, stumbled upon a building code violation outside the facility. Upon further investigation, Harper uncovered a secret laboratory operated by self-professed Chinese nationals. Inside, she found vials containing deadly pathogens, including HIV, labeled in Mandarin, English, and an undeciphered code. The lab also housed genetically modified lab mice bred for experimentation.
Harper reported the matter to Fresno County and the FBI, but the federal agency closed its inquiry, believing there were no weapons of mass destruction. However, Harper and local officials continued their investigation.
A Disturbing Revelation
After obtaining a warrant, local officials searched the Reedley Biolab and discovered blood samples, unlabeled fluids, and suspected biological material. They also found ultralow temperature freezers and containers labeled with biohazard signs. Medical cabinets contained highly flammable, explosive, and corrosive chemicals.
Subsequent inspections by local and state officials confirmed the presence of potentially infectious agents, including the deadliest form of Malaria, HIV, Tuberculosis, and Covid-19. The CDC, however, refused to test the samples and issued a report claiming no evidence of U.S. law violations.
A Government Failure
During the destruction of the pathogens, local officials stumbled upon a freezer filled with samples of Ebola, which the CDC seemed unaware of. The report highlights the CDC’s refusal to test the samples, making it impossible to fully assess the risks posed by the facility. It raises concerns that there may have been other dangerous pathogens present.
.”It is essential that our national security and public health agencies thoroughly investigate and regulate any foreign-operated biolabs that have access to deadly pathogens.”
How can we strengthen international cooperation and regulatory measures between national security and public health agencies to ensure thorough investigation and regulation of foreign-operated biolabs?
Strengthening international cooperation and regulatory measures between national security and public health agencies is essential to ensure thorough investigation and regulation of foreign-operated biolabs. Here are some steps that can be taken:
1. Establish international frameworks: Collaborate with other countries to develop international frameworks that outline clear guidelines and regulations for operating biolabs. This can include protocols for sharing information, conducting joint investigations, and coordinating efforts to ensure transparency and accountability.
2. Strengthen information sharing: Improve communication and information sharing between national security and public health agencies at the international level. This can involve establishing secure channels for sharing intelligence on potential threats related to biolabs, as well as sharing findings from investigations and research conducted by different countries.
3. Conduct joint inspections and audits: Facilitate joint inspections and audits of foreign-operated biolabs. This can involve sending teams comprising representatives from both national security and public health agencies to assess the safety and security measures in place, as well as the compliance with international regulations. These inspections should be conducted regularly and be based on agreed-upon standards.
4. Enhance capacity building: Support capacity building efforts in countries operating biolabs to ensure they have the necessary infrastructure, expertise, and training to maintain high standards of safety and security. This can include providing technical assistance, training programs, and sharing best practices.
5. Establish reporting mechanisms: Create mechanisms for reporting and addressing any suspicious activities or potential breaches in biolabs. This can involve setting up hotlines or dedicated channels for reporting concerns, which should be accessible to both national security and public health agencies.
6. Strengthen international treaties and agreements: Strengthen existing international treaties and agreements related to biolabs and biosecurity, such as the Biological Weapons Convention, to ensure they address the challenges posed by foreign-operated biolabs. Consider revisiting and updating these agreements periodically to stay relevant to the evolving landscape of biotechnology and biosecurity.
7. Foster international collaborations: Encourage international collaborations between research institutions, academia, and biolabs to foster scientific exchanges and facilitate the sharing of knowledge and expertise. This can help build trust between countries and promote a culture of cooperation and openness.
8. Enhance transparency in funding and ownership: Promote transparency in the funding and ownership of foreign-operated biolabs. Require clear disclosure of the sources of funding, the ownership structure, and any affiliations with governmental or non-governmental entities. This can help identify any potential conflicts of interest or undue influence that may compromise the integrity of the biolab’s activities.
By implementing these measures, international cooperation can be strengthened, leading to more effective investigation and regulation of foreign-operated biolabs. This collaboration will not only enhance global biosecurity but also contribute to the overall public health and safety of nations.
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