United States Drug Enforcement Administration

WASHINGTON, DC – The Drug Enforcement Administration announced the results of a week-long operational enforcement action as part of a whole-of-government initiative aimed at removing dangerous and illegal vaping substances from communities across America. During the operation, DEA seized more than 2.3 million vape devices and cartridges and more than 100 weapons since September 15, 2025.

“This operation underscores our commitment to protecting Americans from dangerous, deadly, and illegal substances that threaten public safety and national security,” said Administrator Terrance Cole. “Illegal vape products pose hidden risks—especially to young people who often have no idea what these chemicals are that they are inhaling. By removing these products from our communities, we are taking decisive action to safeguard health, disrupt criminal networks, and prevent harm before it occurs.”   

Vaping devices were originally designed for nicotine and marketed as a cigarette alternative. However, recent data suggests a significant portion of e-cigarette sales involve illegal substances, highlighting a growing public safety and health concern. Also being sold in vape shops are illegal and addictive substances such as synthetic marijuana, synthetic cathinones, and hydroxymitragynine, also known as 7-OH or synthetic kratom. Many of these products feature bright packaging and imagery inspired by popular cereals, candies, and snacks, which appeal to young people. 

From September 15 through September 19, 2025, DEA’s 23 domestic field divisions and seven foreign regions carried out coordinated enforcement actions that resulted in 106 arrests, and the seizure of: 2,357,755Vape Pens/Cartridges, $3,502,905 Currency Seizures, $5,235,000 Assets, and 115Firearms

Locally, the DEA Washington Division reported that the operations conducted in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) resulted in 15 arrests and the seizure of approximately $498,000 in narcotics proceeds, 5 firearms, 730 pounds of marijuana, and a significant amount of dangerous THC related products.

"Our community will not stand by while illegal vape products endanger our citizens, particularly our children," commented DEA Washington Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher C. Goumenis. "Drug trafficking organizations are relentlessly targeting our youth by using deceptive strategies to make these products enticing. They use bright colors, playful fonts, and imagery inspired by candy, popular cereals, or cartoons, and disguise them as everyday items like pens and highlighters. We are passionately committed to continue partnering with local and state allies to put an end to the distribution and sale of these illegal drugs. Together, we will safeguard our community and build a brighter, safer future for our children."

In addition to last week’s nationwide surge, DEA has been investigating vape shops near military bases. The majority of these shops investigated by DEA are owned and operated by foreign nationals believed to be specifically targeting active military personnel. As a result of one joint operation, DEA and its partners seized 8,000 pounds of THC products, 70,000 marijuana plants, and nearly 21,500 pounds of processed marijuana, and arrested 20 people, including three Chinese nationals.

DEA has vaping-related resources available at www.getsmartaboutdrugs.gov. Operation Vape Trail is part of a larger collaborative enforcement effort between the U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.