Two Scientists Charged for Smuggling Deactivated Mpox Virus Into the U.S. and Lying to Authorities

U.S. authorities have charged two virologists working at a federal lab after they failed to declare deactivated mpox virus samples and lied to investigators during a customs interview.

The incident occurred at Detroit Metropolitan Airport following the scientists’ trip from the Republic of Congo, where an mpox outbreak had previously caused thousands of fatalities.

Despite insisting they had proper documentation, FBI tests revealed undeclared vials of the deactivated virus in their luggage.

Federal officials said smuggling biological materials without permission undermines public safety and legal compliance.

The scientists face federal prosecution as the National Institutes of Health cooperates with the ongoing investigation.

Their motives for transporting the virus remain unclear as legal proceedings move forward.