The House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has made a significant move in its investigation into a secret Chinese lab in California. The committee recently issued its first subpoena, demanding documents and records from the City of Reedley, where the lab was located. The lab, known as Prestige Biotech and Universal Meditech Inc., has raised concerns due to its ties to Chinese companies and nationalists.
The lab came under scrutiny when local authorities discovered numerous infectious agents within its premises. According to a press release from the Select Committee, at least 20 potentially infectious agents, including HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria, were found in the facility. What's more alarming is that the lab was located in close proximity to the town's city hall, high school, and water supply.
Chairman Mike Gallagher expressed his deep concern over the situation, stating that it is disturbing to think that a Chinese company could establish a covert facility in a small American town, endangering the safety of its residents. The committee aims to get to the bottom of this issue and ensure that American soil is not being compromised by adversaries.
Preliminary findings from the investigation indicate safety gaps in the lab's operations and shortcomings in the federal government's response. The lab, which was involved in online sales of pregnancy and COVID-19 tests, was shut down in March due to code violations and unsanitary conditions. It was also found to be storing various infectious agents, including HIV and COVID-19 strains. The founders of the lab have ties to Chinese entities and individuals implicated in global fraud investigations and misconduct.
As the investigation continues, the Select Committee will review the substantial volume of documents, photographs, and videos provided by the City of Reedley. The American people deserve answers, and the committee is determined to ensure the safety and security of Americans by uncovering the truth behind this clandestine Chinese lab.
