Police investigate stolen Labubu dolls after claw machine is tilted outside a pet shop.
Incident Overview
SINGAPORE – Five Labubu dolls, valued at approximately $300, were reported missing after three boys tilted a claw machine outside Little Pets Kingdom at Block 930 Yishun Central 1 on the morning of 18 November.
CCTV footage revealed the trio’s failed attempts to win the dolls before resorting to force. Two boys were seen tilting the machine, while a third lifted it off the ground. At one point, the machine was nearly laid sideways. One boy then reached into the prize dispenser.
Owner’s Reaction
Mr. Derrick He, 52, owner of the pet shop and claw machine, discovered the theft after noticing displaced wires and missing dolls from “The Monsters Tasty Macarons Series.” He expressed shock upon viewing the footage but stated he would keep the remaining dolls in the machine.
The dolls, highly sought after due to their popularity, retail at $24.90 but are sold out online, with resellers charging up to $65 each. Their fame surged in April when Blackpink’s Lisa shared photos with Labubu, sparking global demand.
Past Incidents and Ongoing Investigation
Similar cases have emerged recently, including thefts in Sim Lim Square and a fake social media scam involving Labubu dolls at Plaza Singapura.
Police are investigating the Yishun incident. This case highlights the broader craze for Labubu collectibles and the lengths some fans will go to acquire them.
