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Police Seize 43 Labubu Dolls in Melbourne Burglary Investigation

The case underscores a surge in thefts of scarce pop-culture collectibles driven by rising resale prices.

Overview

  • Victoria Police searched a Webb Road property in Airport West on Tuesday and recovered 43 Labubu dolls valued at about A$9,000.
  • Investigators allege the cache came from multiple burglaries at a Melbourne CBD shopping centre that have been occurring since July.
  • A 40-year-old man was charged with burglary and theft and was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates' Court in May 2026.
  • Several limited-edition Labubu dolls were included in the haul, with individual pieces estimated at about A$500.
  • Retailers report more brazen thefts targeting collectibles and trading cards, are installing measures such as magnetic door locks, and note a 27.6% rise in thefts in Victoria in the year to June.