Summary
Five Chinese nationals were charged by U.S. federal authorities for allegedly covering up their visit to a military site in Michigan, specifically Camp Grayling, during a nighttime encounter in August 2023. The charges stem from accusations of lying to investigators and conspiring to delete photos from their phones, rather than any direct actions taken at the military site itself.
The incident began when the group, who were students at the University of Michigan, was confronted by a sergeant major from the Utah National Guard near the military site. The individuals initially claimed to be “media” and later stated their purpose was to view shooting stars. However, investigations revealed they had reserved a motel nearby and had taken photographs of military vehicles during their visit. The FBI noted that similar cases involving Chinese students photographing U.S. defense sites have occurred in the past, raising concerns about national security. The defendants are currently not in custody but would face arrest if they come into contact with U.S. authorities.
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