MELBOURNE, Oct 21 — The Labubu craze has officially hit crime drama levels in Australia. 

Police in Melbourne have arrested a man after finding dozens of the viral collectible dolls — the same ones adored by Rihanna, Lisa of Blackpink and Dua Lipa — stashed inside a suburban home.

According to 9News Australia and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), officers raided a property on Webb Road in Airport West at dawn yesterday, uncovering 43 Labubu dolls worth around A$9,000 (RM25,000). Among them were several rare editions valued at A$500 each.

Investigators believe the elf-like plush toys — known for their big eyes, pointy ears and mischievous grin — were stolen during a string of burglaries at Melbourne Central Shopping Centre since July.

The 40-year-old suspect has been charged with burglary and theft and was released on bail. He’s due to appear in court in May 2026.

First launched by Chinese toy giant Pop Mart, Labubu belongs to The Monsters series by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung. 

Each figure comes hidden in a “blind box,” and fans line up for hours hoping to score special editions. 

The craze has exploded in Australia, with resellers asking hundreds online for dolls that cost about A$35 in-store.