Two Chinese Nationals Charged in US with Espionage Activities
The US Department of Justice has charged two Chinese nationals, Yuance Chen and Liren Lai, with acting as illegal agents for China's Ministry of State Security. They are accused of engaging in espionage, including photographing a US Navy base, organizing a cash drop for an intelligence asset, and attempting to recruit members of the US military. The case, unsealed in San Francisco, highlights what American officials describe as China's sustained effort to infiltrate the US military and gather intelligence.
Unpacked:
The Ministry of State Security (MSS) is China’s primary civilian intelligence agency, responsible for counterintelligence, foreign intelligence, and political security. It plays a central role in gathering intelligence overseas and protecting state secrets, similar to the CIA in the US.
Espionage cases involving alleged Chinese agents have become increasingly common in recent years. US authorities have frequently accused individuals of stealing trade secrets, attempting to recruit assets, or gathering sensitive information for China, reflecting ongoing tensions over intelligence and national security.
If convicted, Chen and Lai could face significant criminal penalties, including prison sentences. Acting as an unregistered agent for a foreign government can carry up to 10 years in prison, with additional charges such as conspiracy or espionage potentially leading to even longer sentences.
The US employs a combination of counterintelligence investigations, surveillance, security clearances, and regular monitoring of sensitive facilities. Agencies like the FBI and Department of Defense actively work to detect infiltration attempts, educate personnel about recruitment tactics, and prosecute suspected spies to deter foreign espionage.