Statewide vape shop crackdown in Virginia uncovers millions in illegal drugs and weapons

Richmond, Virginia – In a sweeping operation launched across Virginia, Governor Glenn Youngkin and the Virginia State Police (VSP) revealed the results of a major statewide enforcement effort aimed at dismantling criminal enterprises operating under the guise of vape and electronic cigarette businesses. Dubbed Operation Magic Dragon, the investigation was launched in response to a growing trend of illegal drug and firearms activity linked to vape shops throughout the Commonwealth.

The operation was initiated after VSP detected a troubling pattern of criminal conduct surrounding these retail locations—many of which cater to youth. In response, Governor Youngkin ordered a multi-month investigation that uncovered a wide range of illegal activities involving narcotics, THC products, and firearms. “When illegal drugs, firearms, and organized criminal activity infiltrate retail businesses, frequented by the public—including youth—Virginia will respond with decisive enforcement and unwavering accountability,” said Governor Youngkin. “The results of Operation Magic Dragon demonstrate the exceptional work of our Virginia State Police special agents and their steadfast commitment to keeping our communities safe.”

Drugs and Weapons Seized Across Virginia

The initial investigation phase, which focused on vape shops primarily in western Virginia, produced staggering results:

• Marijuana: 128.9 kilograms, valued at $1,289,740

• Marijuana concentrate: 4.2 kilograms, valued at $43,810

• THC vape cartridges: 4.3 kilograms, valued at $173,440

• THC edibles: 18 kilograms, valued at $181,200

• Cocaine: 73 grams, valued at $8,322

• Illegal firearms: 21, valued at $10,500

State officials emphasized that many of the vape products seized were clearly targeted at young consumers, with high concentrations of THC and misleading packaging. “Operation Magic Dragon remains a vital tool for identifying and dismantling criminal enterprises that use vape shops and other retail fronts to distribute illegal drugs,” said Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Marcus Anderson. “The Youngkin administration will continue to support these operations to ensure our families and communities are protected from those who profit off addiction and criminality.”

September Surge Operation Yields Statewide Results

In a more aggressive follow-up to the initial investigation, Governor Youngkin called for a focused one-week surge operation in September 2025. This enforcement wave coordinated VSP with local, state, and federal agencies to hit hard against criminal vape networks across all regions of Virginia. The results again revealed the deep scope of illegal operations:

• THC and illegal vape products: 65.5 kilograms, valued at $730,888

• Cocaine: 3 kilograms, valued at $281,883

• Methamphetamine: 8.7 ounces, valued at $11,454

• Psilocybin mushrooms: 82 grams, valued at $3,116

Two seizures in the Roanoke Valley illustrated just how embedded the criminal activity was:

From a single retail store:

• Marijuana: 1 kilogram, valued at $12,150

• THC vapes: 209 grams, valued at $6,270

• THC gummies: 161 bags, valued at $3,220

From a nearby freight distribution site:

• Marijuana: 14 kilograms, valued at $144,000

• Nicotine vapes: 2,000 units, valued at $60,000

Investigators discovered that every single location involved in the operation contained illegal drugs or contraband, regardless of whether they also sold legal products like nicotine vapes.

Ongoing Enforcement to Protect Communities

Operation Magic Dragon continues as an active investigation. The Virginia State Police remain committed to identifying and dismantling criminal enterprises using vape shops as a front to distribute dangerous substances. Governor Youngkin and his administration have pledged continued support to law enforcement agencies across the state in their mission to keep Virginia families safe. “When we empower law enforcement, Virginia is safer,” Governor Youngkin concluded.

As the operation continues, officials urge community members to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity involving vape retailers.