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Two Scientists Charged with Smuggling Deactivated Mpox Virus into US, Lying to Authorities

03 June 2026 08:00

Two scientists at a U.S. government lab have been charged with smuggling deactivated mpox virus from Africa and lying to authorities.

- Vincent Munster and Claude Kwe were stopped at Detroit Metropolitan Airport in January after a trip to the Republic of Congo. - They failed to declare vials of deactivated mpox virus or obtain necessary permits.

- Munster allegedly told investigators he didn't need documents, saying 'I do this all the time.' - The case is under investigation, with the scientists expected in court in Montana on Wednesday. The charges highlight concerns over biosecurity and public trust in handling dangerous pathogens.

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