Chinese Student Arrested At JFK Over Photos Of Offutt 'Doomsday' Plane
A Chinese national was arrested at JFK Airport after allegedly photographing a US military aircraft at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska. Authorities said the person had allegedly photographed a US military aircraft at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska before arriving at JFK. Officials arrested the student at the New York airport and the matter is under federal investigation, Fox News reported.
Offutt hosts the Air Force's E-4B "Doomsday" command plane, which is designed to ensure continuity of government during crises. Photography of sensitive military installations can raise national security concerns and prompt law enforcement scrutiny, especially when foreign nationals are involved. Fox's report did not detail charges or flight itinerary, and officials have not publicly released further specifics.
đ Key Facts
- Suspect identified as 21-year-old Chinese national and University of Glasgow student Tianrui Liang
- Arrested April 7 at JFK International Airport while attempting to board an international flight
- Accused of illegally photographing RC-135 and E-4B 'Nightwatch' aircraft at Offutt Air Force Base, home of U.S. Strategic Command
- FBI affidavit says Liang admitted knowing it was illegal and used a planespotter website to find locations
- Investigators allege he planned to photograph additional aircraft at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma
- Charged under federal law prohibiting photographing defense installations without commander approval; affidavit does not allege work for a foreign government
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