Two Chinese nationals were arrested by the Department of Homeland Security after their children were linked to an alleged bomb plot at MacDill Air Force Base, according to federal authorities.

The parents, identified as Qiu Qin Zou and Jia Zhang Zheng, were denied asylum and were living in the United States illegally. They were taken into custody by immigration officials and remain in ICE detention.

Their children, Alen Zheng and Ann Mary Zheng, are U.S. citizens and face serious federal charges tied to the incident. Prosecutors allege that Alen Zheng brought an explosive device to the base’s visitor center, leading to multiple charges including attempted destruction of government property by fire or explosion, unlawful manufacture of a destructive device, and possession of an unregistered explosive.

According to the Department of Justice, Ann Mary Zheng is accused of helping her brother evade law enforcement after the incident. She has been charged with evidence tampering and assisting after the fact. Authorities allege she concealed or destroyed evidence, including a vehicle connected to the case, to hinder the investigation.

Both siblings fled to China on March 12. Ann Mary Zheng was arrested upon returning to the United States on March 17, while her brother is believed to remain overseas.

Federal prosecutors say the case involves an attempt to damage government property using an explosive device, raising significant national security concerns. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue efforts to locate and apprehend Alen Zheng.