$81 MILLION in Illegal Vapes and E-Cigs Seized by CBP in Chicago in Major Crackdown!
Over 3 million illegal vapes worth $81.5 million intercepted in Chicago, exposing a dangerous underground market flooding the U.S.! đ #News #ChicagoIL #Illinois #Crime
CHICAGO, IL – Over 3 million vapes and e-cigarettes, worth a jaw-dropping $81.5 million, have been intercepted by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers right here in Chicago, Illinois. The devices, primarily imported from China, were destined for locations across the United States. This massive operation revealed a flood of illegal, potentially dangerous products on their way to U.S. consumersâand itâs just one example of the growing problem with unapproved, unsafe vaping devices flooding the market.
The Scale of the Seizures
CBP officers in Chicago conducted 121 separate seizures of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) over the past year. These devices, including vapes and e-cigarettes, were intercepted before they could reach their intended U.S. destinations.
Most of the shipments originated from China, with the devices intended for consumers nationwide. In total, the seizures amounted to more than 3 million units, underscoring the scale of the illegal trade in such products.
Legal Violations and Intellectual Property Concerns
The seized products were found to be in violation of several laws, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act). Many of the unapproved vapes and e-cigarettes lacked the required FDA marketing authorization, making them adulterated and misbranded. The devices posed significant health risks, with unregulated nicotine levels and the potential for toxic chemicals.
In addition to the FDA violations, some shipments were flagged for intellectual property rights (IPR) violations. The products contained unauthorized trademarks of popular figures, which CBP officials say are often used to attract younger consumers.
âIt is common for bad actors to use popular people and brands to promote their products. In a couple of these instances, they used the name of an influencer with a large following specifically targeting the younger audience,â said LaFonda D. Sutton-Burke, Director, Field Operations, Chicago Field Office.
A Growing Threat to Public Health and Safety
The risks posed by these illicit products go beyond just violating consumer safety regulations. Unapproved vapes and e-cigarettes can contain dangerous chemicals and higher levels of nicotine, which can lead to serious health problems.
âCriminals are using every means imaginable to expand the reach of their illicit enterprises,â said Mike Pfeiffer, Chicago Area Port Director.
The sales of these illegal goods often fund further criminal activities, including drug trafficking and the purchase of illegal weapons, creating a broader threat to public safety.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | Illinois
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