Federal authorities seized nearly $34 million worth of illegal e-cigarettes in their latest effort to crack down on unauthorized vaping products entering the U.S.

The seizures were part of a joint federal operation aimed at inspecting incoming shipments and preventing illegal e-cigarettes from entering the U.S. The operation led to the discovery of various illegal e-cigarette products, almost all of which originated in China and were intended for shipment to different U.S. states.

The seizures occurred in Chicago in February but were announced by the FDA in a press release on Thursday. The devices taken in the joint operation were valued at $33.8 million. The initiative was part of an effort by federal agencies to prevent illegal e-cigarettes from being smuggled into the country.

U.S. officials say Chicago sting in February seized nearly $34M in illegal e-cigs. Officials say the China-originated packages was valued at about $33.8 million. February's seizure in Illinois was part of a joint federal operation to examine incoming shipments.

FDA and border officials seize nearly 2 million units of unauthorized e-cigarettes. The estimated retail value of this seizure was $33.8 million. Almost all of the illegal e-cigarette products discovered by the team originated in China and were intended for shipment to multiple U.S. states.