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Illegal Biolab Discovered in Las Vegas Home After SWAT Raid
Authorities uncover over 1,000 pieces of evidence, including biological materials and unknown liquids
Feb. 4, 2026 at 4:55pm
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Federal and local authorities are investigating a suspected illegal biolab discovered inside a Las Vegas home after a SWAT raid uncovered over 1,000 pieces of evidence, including biological materials and vials filled with unknown liquids. The home's property manager, Ori Solomon, was arrested on charges related to improper disposal of hazardous waste, while the homeowner, Jia Bei Zhu, is already in federal custody in connection with a similar case in California.
Why it matters
The discovery of an illegal biolab in a residential area raises significant public health and safety concerns, as unregulated biological materials and hazardous waste can pose serious risks to the surrounding community. This case also highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to crack down on unauthorized and potentially dangerous biotech operations.
The details
According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, officers served a search warrant Saturday at a home on the city's east side after receiving a tip. Most of the materials were found inside a locked garage, where investigators located refrigerators with vials, lab equipment, and large containers of unidentified liquids. Authorities used a robot, air sampling, and hazmat teams to safely clear the home.
- The SWAT raid and discovery of the illegal biolab occurred on Saturday, February 4, 2026.
- Jia Bei Zhu, the homeowner, was previously arrested in 2023 in connection with an illegal biolab discovered in Reedley, California.
The players
Ori Solomon
The 55-year-old property manager of the Las Vegas home, who was arrested on charges related to improper disposal of hazardous waste.
Jia Bei Zhu
The homeowner, who is already in federal custody in connection with an illegal biolab discovered in Reedley, California, in 2023.
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department
The local law enforcement agency that executed the search warrant and discovered the illegal biolab.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
The federal law enforcement agency assisting with testing the materials found in the Las Vegas home.
What they’re saying
“We must ensure that any illegal and potentially dangerous biotech operations are shut down to protect public health and safety.”
— Kevin McMahill, Sheriff (WABC Radio)
What’s next
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is continuing to test the materials found in the Las Vegas home, and authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests.
The takeaway
This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to crack down on unauthorized and potentially dangerous biotech operations, which can pose significant risks to public health and safety if left unchecked.
