Alleged Spy Operation Shakes National Security

Federal agents have arrested Yuance Chen and Liren Lai, two Chinese nationals accused of running a covert espionage campaign inside the United States. According to the Department of Justice, both men secretly worked for China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS).

Targeting the U.S. Navy

Authorities say the pair gathered intelligence on U.S. Navy personnel and attempted to recruit active-duty members into a Chinese spy network. The operation included surveillance of military bases and sensitive information exchanges.

Dead Drops and Disguises

Investigators discovered that the men orchestrated cash “dead drop” payments, a classic espionage tactic. They posed as ordinary civilians to conceal their activities—one of them reportedly entered the U.S. on a tourist visa.

Coordinated Arrests After Long Surveillance

Following months of surveillance, FBI agents—with support from NCIS—apprehended Chen in Happy Valley, Oregon, and Lai in Houston, Texas.

“This is part of the Chinese Communist Party’s broader effort to infiltrate and undermine our institutions,” said FBI Director Kash Patel.

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities are still uncovering the scope of the plot, including whether other individuals were involved or compromised.

This case isn’t just about two foreign operatives. It’s a stark reminder of the silent war playing out on American soil—a war of secrets, infiltration, and national security threats.