An illegal lab in Reedley, California, linked to China, has been discovered housing deadly pathogens, including coronavirus and HIV. The lab, operating under the name “Prestige Biotech,” was found to have industrial freezers filled with hundreds of vials of viruses and approximately 1,000 dead and dying lab mice. The discovery has prompted a state, local, and federal probe into the lab’s operations and its ties to a dubious biotech company. The lab was involved in the development of Covid diagnostic and pregnancy tests, as well as storing other infectious agents like hepatitis and herpes. Rohit reported
Reedley, California was recently stunned by the discovery of an illegal lab that housed deadly pathogens, including coronavirus, HIV, and malaria. The lab, which was linked to China, was found in a nondescript warehouse by city officials who noticed a hose sticking out from the building. This accidental discovery prompted a joint investigation by state, local, and federal authorities, as suspicions arose regarding the lab’s connection to a dubious biotech company with ties to China.
Upon further inspection, US government officials found industrial freezers filled with hundreds of vials of viruses, as well as approximately 1,000 dead and dying lab mice. The underground facility also contained Covid diagnostic and pregnancy tests, suggesting the lab’s involvement in the development of these products. Additionally, at least 20 other infectious agents, including hepatitis and herpes, were discovered in the lab.
The lab operated under the name “Prestige Biotech,” which was not licensed for business in California. The company’s president, Xiuquin Yao, claimed it was a successor to the now-defunct Universal Meditech Inc., but investigations into their associated addresses in China uncovered abandoned offices or unverifiable locations.
In addition to the dangerous pathogens, officials were shocked to find approximately 1,000 lab mice kept in inhumane conditions, with around 200 already dead. These mice were being used to test the efficacy of Covid test kits on-site.
Further investigation revealed a collection of vials containing various biomaterials, including blood and tissue, as well as unlabeled chemicals, some of which contained dangerous pathogens such as E. Coli, streptococcus pneumonia, and hepatitis B and C.
The entity operating the lab, Prestige Biotech, was registered in Las Vegas, and Xiuquin Yao was identified as its president. City officials believe that the operation moved to the Reedley warehouse after the closure of Universal Meditech Inc.
This shocking discovery has raised concerns about the operations and safety of biotech companies, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and oversight in the industry.
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