In the United Kingdom, authorities have reported a significant rise in thefts targeting collectible "JellyCats 2.0" toys, also popularly known as Labubu figures. These sought-after items have become a prime target for thieves due to their high resale value on secondary markets.
Originally launched as part of a designer toy series, JellyCats 2.0 have cultivated a dedicated fanbase worldwide. Limited production runs and exclusive designs have made these toys particularly attractive to collectors — and, increasingly, to criminals. Some rare models can fetch hundreds, or even thousands, of pounds online, creating a lucrative black market.
Police forces across several regions, including London, Manchester, and Birmingham, have issued warnings to retailers and collectors to increase security measures. Reports indicate that both individual collectors and specialty stores have been affected, with thefts ranging from shoplifting incidents to more organized break-ins.
Retailers have responded by enhancing store security, including installing additional CCTV cameras, using locked display cases, and limiting the number of toys displayed on the shop floor. Some collectors have also begun securing their personal collections in safes or storing them offsite.
Authorities are urging anyone purchasing JellyCats 2.0 on online marketplaces to verify the origin of the products, as stolen items are believed to be circulating through unofficial channels. They have also encouraged collectors to document and photograph their collections to assist in recovery if theft occurs.
The phenomenon highlights a broader trend where collectible toys, once considered niche items, have become valuable assets — making them increasingly attractive to both legitimate collectors and criminal enterprises.
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