Two federal researchers have been arrested by the FBI on charges related to illegally transporting biological samples into the United States. The scientists, affiliated with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), are accused of attempting to bring in materials connected to a viral outbreak overseas without proper documentation. Both face additional allegations of making false statements to federal investigators.
The individuals work at the NIH’s Rocky Mountain Laboratory in Montana, a high-security facility dedicated to studying emerging viral pathogens. Their roles involve researching how viruses cross species barriers, including pathogens that could pose public health risks. Federal authorities say the alleged actions violated strict federal regulations governing the transport of biological materials.
The incident occurred on January 25, 2026, when the researchers arrived at Detroit Metropolitan Airport on a flight from Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo, a region experiencing a monkeypox outbreak at the time. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers flagged one of the individuals for secondary inspection due to suspicious behavior and an unusually large case being carried by the travelers.
Upon inspection, authorities discovered coolers containing 113 small vials. Laboratory testing later confirmed that most contained deactivated monkeypox virus, while a few included chickenpox virus or human DNA. Officials said the samples were not infectious, but the researchers did not have the necessary federal permits or approved shipping documentation required for transporting even inactivated viral materials.
Legal experts note that the alleged actions violated both federal law and NIH safety regulations regarding the shipment of biological materials on commercial flights. If convicted, the scientists could face up to five years in prison. Both have pled not guilty and were released on their own recognizance pending further court proceedings.
The NIH has stated that there was never any risk to staff or the public at the Montana laboratory and reiterated its commitment to strict biosafety protocols. Authorities continue to investigate the case, highlighting the importance of compliance with federal regulations when transporting biological materials internationally.