In a new instance of exposed foreign spies, two Chinese nationals, Yuance Chen and Liren “Ryan” Lai, were arrested by the FBI for allegedly acting as covert agents of the People’s Republic of China.
See the tweet below!
Their espionage activities reportedly targeted the U.S. military, raising serious concerns about national security.
The arrests, which occurred in Portland, Oregon, and Houston, Texas, are part of an intensified effort to uncover and dismantle foreign espionage networks.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), in coordination with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, carried out the operations that led to Chen and Lai’s arrests.
These individuals are accused of conducting intelligence operations on behalf of the Ministry of State Security (MSS) of China, underscoring an aggressive attempt by the Chinese government to undermine U.S. defense capabilities.
FBI Director Kash Patel stated, “The FBI arrested two Chinese nationals who were allegedly attempting to recruit U.S. military service members on behalf of the PRC”
The criminal complaint accuses Chen and Lai of using social media to make contact with U.S. Navy members, carrying out cash payments for sensitive information via “dead drop” exchanges.
Their attempts to recruit military personnel for espionage activities were a significant disruption of China’s operations targeting the U.S.
This case highlights the evolving threats posed by foreign intelligence services.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi expressed the Justice Department’s stance: “This case underscores the Chinese government’s sustained and aggressive effort to infiltrate our military and undermine our national security from within…we will expose foreign operatives, hold their agents to account, and protect the American people from covert threats to our national security.”
The FBI’s San Francisco Field Office, along with other divisions, spearheaded the investigation, receiving vital assistance from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS).
The collaborative effort reflects a strong resolve to safeguard America’s interests against espionage.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office emphasized the ongoing threat from adversaries aiming to collect intelligence against the United States.
Should the defendants be convicted, they face severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Their prosecution represents a key moment in reinforcing the importance of national security laws amid growing international hostilities.
The case underscores the persistent espionage threats to the United States and highlights the critical need for vigilance and decisive action.
🚨 FBI busts Chinese spies Yuance Chen & Liren Lai sneaking intel on US Navy bases to MSS! Caught plotting cash drops & recruiting sailors. @GoatInitiative has been on the trail, unmasking CCP operatives infiltrating US military bases for years.🕵️♂️ #NationalSecurity #Espionage pic.twitter.com/c5OX7Aiby2
— Cory Gautereaux (@thecorygoat) July 2, 2025
The investigation and subsequent arrests mark a significant victory for U.S. counterintelligence efforts; however, it also serves as a sobering reminder of the foreign threats America faces daily.
The Chinese Embassy’s denial of the charges cannot obscure these alarming activities that endanger national security.
