More than 100 fake Labubu dolls seized from shops in Elgin

More than 100 fake Labubu dolls have been seized from shops in Elgin, following “significant safety concerns”.

The elf-like creatures from Chinese toy maker Pop Mart have increased in popularity in recent years and have led to fakes flooding the market.

Moray Council’s trading standards team say many of the toys they found had small parts which could have fallen off and become a choking hazard.

They also had poor stitching and exposed stuffing, increasing the risk of suffocation.

Other fake toys discovered around the country have been found to contain dangerous chemicals.

Genuine Labubu dolls are often expensive and have recently become a viral sensation.

Moray councillor David Gordon said: “There are significant safety concerns associated with these fake toys.

“Toy safety regulations are there to protect children from the dangers associated with toys which have not been properly tested to ensure they are safe from risks like harmful chemicals and choking hazards.

“Shops who choose to ignore these risks and sell these types of unsafe toys can expect to have them seized.”

Moray Council Trading Standards have asked the public to be cautious of toys that are much cheaper than expected or look poorly made.

They said they would continue to monitor local shops and take action against unsafe products.

People looking to buy a doll are asked to look out for the CE or UKCA safety mark on the label, check for a holographic Pop Mart sticker or QR code linking to the official website and check packaging for the name or address of a UK or EU supplier.

Anyone who thinks they’ve bought a fake or unsafe toy is advised to contact Advice Direct Scotland.