China Holds US Citizen on Espionage Charges After Nearly Two Years in Detention

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Beijing : A Chinese-born American scientist has been held in China for nearly two years on espionage charges, with his family and US officials calling for his release as concerns grow over his health and prolonged detention.

Youlin Chen, a 54 year old seismologist who became a US citizen in 2011, was arrested in Beijing in November 2024 while returning to the United States after visiting family and giving lectures at Chinese universities. He has since been accused of espionage but has not received a public trial.

Chen is known for his research using publicly available seismic data to detect underground nuclear tests, including those carried out by North Korea. His family insists his work was unclassified and rejects allegations that he engaged in spying.

The US State Department has designated Chen as wrongfully detained and says it is pressing for his release through diplomatic channels. His case has also drawn support from lawmakers and advocacy groups, who argue he is being unfairly targeted.

Chinese authorities have defended the detention, saying the case is being handled in accordance with Chinese law and rejecting claims that Chen is being wrongfully held. His family says they have had only limited contact with him and fear his physical and mental health has deteriorated during his time in custody.