Nearly 240,000 counterfeit Labubu dolls have been seized at the UK border this year as officers crack down on fake toys in the run-up to Christmas.
Border Force has ramped up shipment searches to prevent children receiving knock-off toys as presents, as three quarters of them fail safety tests with risks including choking hazards and exposure to banned chemicals linked to cancer.
Fake versions of the viral Labubu figures accounted for 90% of the more than 260,000 counterfeit toys intercepted in 2025.
Others counterfeit toys found included Jellycats, PlayStation controllers, Disney merchandise and Pokemon figurines.
The items, shipped by organised criminals, are usually destroyed to protect legitimate retailers and manufacturers, according to the Home Office.
Border Force assistant director Adam Chatfield said: “Preventing cheap knock-off toys entering Britain isn’t about stopping fun at Christmas.
“Serious organised criminals use profits from dangerous counterfeit goods to fund their evil activities – exploiting parents and families.
“Every product seized disrupts criminal networks threatening our border security, spares children from harm and protects legitimate British businesses.”
The Home Office said it was a record-breaking year for Border Force drug seizures, including £1 billion worth of cocaine seized earlier this year.
Firearms and weapons were also intercepted.
Border Force has been working with the Intellectual Property Office, using intelligence to target high-risk shipments and train officers to identify fake products.
Intellectual Property Office deputy director of enforcement policy Helen Barnham said: “With counterfeit toys, what you see is rarely what you get.
“These illegal and dangerous goods have bypassed every safety check the law requires, behind the packaging can be hidden choking hazards, toxic chemicals and unsafe electrical wiring that put children in real danger.
“This Christmas, check before you buy. Be wary of unfamiliar sellers and deals that seem too good to be true.
“If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Don’t let your child be the product tester.”
