NEWARK, N.J., April 25 (UPI) -- Two Taiwanese citizens were charged Wednesday in Newark, N.J., in an alleged scheme to export sensitive U.S. military technology to China.
A plot to obtain unmanned aerial vehicles, known as drones, as well as other surveillance aircraft and stealth technology pertinent to F-22 fighter planes was discovered after Hui Sheng Shen, 45, and Huan Ling Chang, 45, were charged in March with attempting to import 50 kilograms of the drug crystal methamphetamine from Taiwan to the United States, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman and FBI Special Agent-in-Charge Michael B. Ward announced Wednesday.
The initial investigation involved counterfeit retail goods brought from Taiwan, which led to the alleged drug importation and then to the alleged export of military technology, a statement from the U.S. Department of Justice said.
The drug charge, on which Shen and Chang were arrested, was amended in the complaint, unsealed Wednesday, which additionally charges them with conspiracy to violate the Arms Export Control Act.
"Initial investigations into counterfeit goods importation led federal law enforcement to a meth trafficking operation and an alleged plot to export some of America's most sensitive weapons and related technology to China. The same conduits that bring knock-off sneakers flood our communities with illegal drugs and establish dangerous criminal relationships," Fishman said.
