Labubu Dolls Stolen in Los Angeles Smash-and-Grab – Police Investigating

In a brazen early morning theft that has left store owners “still in shock,” about $7,000 worth of Labubu dolls were stolen from a toy shop in La Puente, California, last week. The heist took place in the early hours of Wednesday, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and involved a stolen Toyota Tacoma that was later recovered.

The store, One Stop Sales, shared CCTV footage on Instagram showing a group of masked individuals breaking in, shuffling through merchandise, and carrying out multiple boxes. The culprits also left the premises in disarray, damaging fixtures and tossing products around the shop floor.

Labubu dolls — whimsical, toothy collectible figures created by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung — have surged in popularity over the past decade, fetching high resale values among collectors. Some limited editions sell for hundreds of dollars each, making them a prime target for thieves.

Why Are Labubu Dolls Being Targeted by Thieves?

The Labubu dolls stolen in this incident reflect a growing trend in collectible thefts. As collectibles become more valuable on the secondary market, criminals are targeting stores and private collections alike.

Labubu figures, first introduced over ten years ago, are known for their distinctive wide-eyed, mischievous designs. Produced in limited quantities, these toys often sell out within minutes when released, and certain designs can appreciate dramatically in value.

Collectors worldwide track releases closely, and social media has amplified their desirability. This increased demand has also made them an appealing commodity for illicit resale, where sellers can quickly offload stolen merchandise without formal retail channels.

Store Owner’s Reaction and Community Support

One Stop Sales expressed devastation in its social media post, stating, “We are still in shock.” The store called on the community for assistance in identifying the suspects, urging anyone with information to contact law enforcement.

The emotional toll of such thefts extends beyond monetary loss. Independent toy retailers often rely on small-batch inventory and have deep connections with their customer base, making these incidents particularly disruptive.

Community members and collectors have rallied in support of the store, sharing the footage and spreading awareness in hopes of recovering the stolen goods. The Sheriff’s Department is continuing its investigation but has yet to release further details on the suspects.

Authorities note that thefts targeting collectibles have been on the rise in Los Angeles County. These cases often involve organized groups who know the market value of the items they target.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is urging businesses to consider additional security measures, such as reinforced entry points, alarm systems, and off-site storage for high-value items. While the stolen Toyota Tacoma used in the break-in has been recovered, the suspects remain at large.

Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and seeking tips from the public. They believe the thieves may attempt to resell the dolls through online marketplaces, collector groups, or pop-up events.

Authorities have also warned potential buyers to be cautious and verify the source of any collectible Labubu dolls they purchase in the coming weeks.

This incident underscores the growing risks faced by collectible retailers, particularly those dealing in rare or high-demand items like Labubu dolls. With resale values skyrocketing, store owners and collectors alike may need to adopt stronger protective measures.

You Must Know:

Q1: What are Labubu dolls and why are they valuable?
Labubu dolls are collectible art toys created by Kasing Lung. Their limited production runs and unique designs make them highly sought after, with some selling for hundreds of dollars each.

Q2: How much were the stolen Labubu dolls worth?
The estimated value of the stolen dolls from the La Puente store is around $7,000, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

Q3: Where did the theft take place?
The incident occurred at One Stop Sales in La Puente, California, about 18 miles east of downtown Los Angeles.

Q4: How were the thieves able to carry out the robbery?
Authorities say the suspects used a stolen Toyota Tacoma to commit the smash-and-grab burglary before abandoning the vehicle nearby.

Q5: Are collectible thefts becoming more common?
Yes. Police report an increase in thefts targeting high-value collectibles, from designer sneakers to rare toys, due to strong demand and high resale potential.

Q6: What should collectors do to protect their valuable items?
Experts recommend secure storage, insurance coverage, and caution when buying or selling from unknown sources.