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Victoria Police Recover 43 Labubu Dolls in Airport West Raid, Charge 40-Year-Old

The case highlights a broader spike in thefts of high-demand pop-culture collectibles.

Overview

  • Officers executing a search warrant on Oct. 21 at a Webb Road property in Airport West found 43 Labubu dolls worth about A$9,000, including limited editions valued up to A$500.
  • A 40-year-old man was arrested and charged with burglary and theft and has been bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates' Court in May 2026.
  • Police allege the dolls are linked to four burglaries at a Melbourne CBD shopping centre that occurred since July.
  • Labubu figures, produced by Pop Mart and typically retailing for about A$32–35, have surged in popularity, with some reselling for several hundred dollars.
  • Retailers report rising thefts targeting in-demand items in Victoria and are adding security such as magnetic door locks as reported retail theft rose 27.6% in the year to June.