Two High-Level NIH Researchers Caught Smuggling Monkeypox: FBI

Federal prosecutors have charged two foreign nationals working at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) with conspiring to smuggle monkeypox into the United States and lying to federal authorities about it, officials said Tuesday.

The case raises fresh concerns about the handling of dangerous pathogens and biosafety compliance at top U.S. research facilities. The charges could carry significant legal consequences for the researchers and prompt heightened scrutiny of how infectious materials are transported internationally.

Monkeypox is an infectious disease that can cause fever, swollen lymph nodes and a painful rash, and it is subject to strict federal controls governing its storage and transport because of potential public health risks. Federal law requires permits and detailed documentation for transporting such materials into the United States.

Officials allege the defendants lacked the required authorization and knowingly made false statements to federal agents during the inspection. The charges include conspiracy to smuggle goods into the United States as well as making false statements, according to prosecutors.

The case was announced by the U.S. Attorney's Office in the Eastern District of Michigan, with participation from the FBI, Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.

Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing, raising broader questions about oversight of high-risk biological research and the international movement of pathogens.

This is a breaking news article. Updates to follow.

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This story was originally published June 2, 2026 at 3:01 PM.