Five Chinese nationals, former University of Michigan students, face charges of obstructing justice near a crucial military site in Michigan. The five Chinese students have claimed to be media and were there at Camp Grayling simply to see shooting stars. The FBI reported the students were part of a joint program between the University of Michigan and Shanghai Jiao Tong University. They also reported the Chinese students rented a hotel near the military site a week prior being caught.
At a Glance
- Five individuals were charged with concealment after an incident near Camp Grayling’s military site.
- Accused of misleading investigators and conspiring to delete evidence from devices.
- The FBI highlights concerns over similar incidents involving international students.
- The whereabouts of the charged men are currently unknown.
Confrontation at Camp Grayling
In August 2023, five Chinese nationals were spotted near Camp Grayling, a military training site in Michigan, during ongoing operations. This group, all former students at a University of Michigan joint program with Shanghai Jiao Tong University, was initially confronted by a National Guard sergeant major. Their presence in the restricted area raised immediate suspicion due to security protocols associated with military locations.
When questioned, they claimed to be “media,” and later mentioned their purpose was “to see shooting stars,” adding to the scrutiny surrounding their motives. Investigations revealed attempts to erase incriminating images of military vehicles captured on the night’s external hard drive.
Move along – nothing to see here folks.
Five Chinese Nationals Charged With Spying Near Military Base In Michigan https://t.co/OAVc5yhddg
— The Beach From Florida (@BeachFrmFL) October 3, 2024
Security Concerns and Previous Incidents
The FBI has highlighted past occurrences where international students, particularly from China, have been involved in photographing sensitive locations across the United States. A similar event in 2020 involved two Chinese nationals photographing a naval air station in Florida, leading to their sentencing. Such activities have increased concerns about espionage and national security threats, prompting the FBI to address these incidents with heightened attention and vigilance.
“The defendants are not in custody. Should they come into contact with U.S. authorities, they will be arrested and face these charges,” said Gina Balaya, a spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Detroit.
Conversations via WeChat revealed the group’s discussions about deleting suspicious photos from their devices, further implicating them in the case. These findings add a layer of complexity to the case as authorities work to establish any connections to broader intelligence operations involving strategic data gathering at U.S. defense sites.
NEW: Five Chinese nationals (students at University of Michigan as part of school’s partnership with Shanghai Jiao Tong University) are charged w/ false statements, conspiracy, & destruction of evidence related to them photographing National Guard exercises w/ Taiwan’s military. pic.twitter.com/np0rfEBGQw
— Jerry Dunleavy IV 🇺🇸 (@JerryDunleavy) October 2, 2024
Current Status and Ongoing Investigation
The individuals remain at large and are not in custody. Law enforcement has flagged their movements, with arrangements made to detain them should they engage with U.S. authorities again. The situation emphasizes the ongoing challenges in safeguarding national security against increasing global intelligence threats.
“to see shooting stars,” said one of the men being interviewed by the FBI.
Their previous reservation at a nearby motel and claims surrounding tourism activities have raised suspicions, suggesting premeditated intentions. As investigations continue, it remains crucial for the authorities to ensure that such security breaches near vital U.S. military installations are prevented in the future.
Sources:
“to see shooting stars,” said one of the men being interviewed by the FBI.
