In a dramatic turn of events, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has arrested Ming Xi Zhang, a 61-year-old restaurateur from Montgomery Township, New Jersey, on charges of espionage.
Known locally as “Sushi John,” Zhang owns Ya Ya Noodles, a popular eatery in the Montgomery Shopping Center. His arrest in Newark on March 24 has sent shockwaves through the local community and reignited debates over national security and immigration enforcement.
A History of Espionage Allegations
Zhang’s legal troubles date back to 2016 when he reportedly acted as an unregistered agent for the Chinese government. According to court documents, Zhang met with Chinese security officials in the Bahamas and facilitated the transfer of $35,000 to an unidentified individual in New Jersey.
He also admitted to hosting a Chinese government agent at his Princeton home twice that same year. In May 2021, Zhang pleaded guilty to these charges and was convicted in April 2024, receiving a sentence of three years’ probation.
Despite his probationary status, ICE claims Zhang violated the terms of his lawful admission to the United States. He originally entered the country legally in June 2000 but is now accused of breaching immigration laws.
ICE Newark Field Office Director John Tsoukaris emphasized that “any illegal alien conducting activities related to espionage, sabotage, or export control against the United States is subject to deportation.”
Community Reaction and Legal Proceedings
Zhang is currently being held at the Elizabeth Detention Center in Essex County as he awaits immigration proceedings. A worker at Ya Ya Noodles described him as “doing good, given the circumstances,” while noting that he is “just kind of waiting… to get let out.” The arrest has sparked widespread support from the local community, with many rallying around his family and restaurant. “The whole town has been supportive,” said an employee at Ya Ya Noodles. “People have been coming in, offering phone numbers, talking to his family… everyone’s supportive.”
The case has also drawn attention to ICE’s intensified enforcement measures under President Donald Trump’s administration. Zhang’s arrest aligns with broader efforts to crack down on illegal immigration and foreign espionage activities.
The timing coincides with heightened U.S.-China tensions, including newly imposed tariffs and increased scrutiny of individuals with ties to Chinese state agencies.