The U.S. Department of Justice has charged two individuals with allegedly acting as unregistered agents of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), in what officials described as part of a broader campaign by Beijing to covertly influence American institutions and suppress dissent.
According to a statement released Tuesday, the defendants whose names were not immediately disclosed pending court proceedings are accused of working under the direction of Chinese government officials to monitor, harass, and influence U.S.-based individuals critical of the Chinese Communist Party.
“These charges reflect an alarming effort by the PRC government to reach into the United States and silence voices of dissent,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “We will not tolerate efforts by foreign powers to intimidate or threaten individuals on American soil.”
The Justice Department alleges that the suspects operated in violation of the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), which requires individuals acting on behalf of foreign governments to disclose their affiliations. Prosecutors also accuse them of attempting to obstruct U.S. legal processes on Beijing’s behalf.
Part of a Broader Pattern
The charges mark the latest in a series of U.S. law enforcement actions targeting so-called “transnational repression” efforts by foreign governments with China frequently cited as a leading offender.
FBI Director Christopher Wray said the Bureau has seen an uptick in such operations, noting that the defendants allegedly engaged in surveillance and intimidation tactics directed at Chinese nationals residing legally in the United States, including pro-democracy activists and members of minority communities.
“This case is part of our ongoing effort to counter the Chinese government’s attempts to project its power well beyond its borders,” Wray said. “We will continue to expose and disrupt operations that threaten the freedoms guaranteed under U.S. law.”
Diplomatic Fallout Possible
The Chinese Embassy in Washington has not yet commented on the charges. However, previous cases involving similar allegations have drawn sharp rebukes from Beijing, which often accuses the U.S. of fabricating charges and interfering in its internal affairs.
Legal analysts say the case may further strain already-tense relations between Washington and Beijing, especially amid disputes over trade, technology, and global security.
If convicted, the defendants face potential prison sentences and deportation. The case is being prosecuted by the Justice Department’s National Security Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the relevant district.
source: nytimes.com