Las Vegas Home Raid Uncovers Suspected Biolab, One Arrested

Authorities in Las Vegas are investigating a suspected biolaboratory discovered in a residential property on the city's east side, leading to one arrest. The home is linked to the owner of an unauthorized California biolab, officials confirmed on Monday.

Police Raid and Evidence Found

According to a statement from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, SWAT officers executed a search warrant on Saturday following a tip about a biolab at the location. During the operation, officers took the property manager of the residence into custody, though no immediate information was provided about potential charges. Investigators reported finding evidence of possible biological material, including refrigerators containing vials with unknown liquids.

Connection to California Biolab Case

Sheriff Kevin McMahill stated that the home is owned by a man arrested in 2023 for failing to obtain proper permits to manufacture tests for COVID-19, pregnancy, and HIV, and for mislabeling some kits at a biolab in Reedley, California. The owner, Jia Bei Zhu, is scheduled to go on trial in that case in April. His attorney, Anthony Capozzi, asserted on Monday that his client has been in federal custody for three years and is not involved in any biolab activities in Las Vegas, adding that they are unaware of what occurred at the residence.

Safety Measures and Ongoing Investigation

Law enforcement took special precautions during the raid, including using a robot to clear the home and collecting multiple air samples. Hazmat teams were deployed to remove items from the property. Authorities have emphasized that there is no threat to the public. The FBI is assisting in the investigation, which remains active as officials work to determine the full scope of the suspected biolab operations.