Warning over 'danger' of fake Labubu dolls

Fakes of the globally popular Labubu dolls seized recently in Scotland are "potentially dangerous", according to trading standards officers.

The elf-like creature from Chinese toy maker Pop Mart are the latest craze in collectibles and have gone viral on social media.

But officials in Aberdeen are warning consumers and businesses to be alert, following the seizure of "counterfeit and potentially dangerous" versions of the toys from shops in the city.

They had loose parts which could pose a choking hazard.

The council's trading standards team seized the counterfeit Labubu toys from four premises across the city.

They did not have the required safety labelling.

Trading standards manager Graeme Paton said: "Following the discovery of counterfeit toys, we want to alert consumers and particularly parents to be extra vigilant.

"These counterfeit toys can seem like a bargain compared with trying to source the genuine toy, especially when they are a much-sought-after item, but they are potentially dangerous."

He added: "Counterfeit toys can potentially pose significant dangers to young children such as chemical exposure and choking hazards.

"These products routinely lack proper safety testing and we encourage anyone concerned about the safety of toys they've purchased to get in touch with us via Consumer Advice Scotland."

Labubu is both a fictional character and a brand.

The word itself does not mean anything.

It is the name of a character in "The Monsters" toy series created by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung.

The vinyl faces are attached to plush bodies, and come with a signature look - pointy ears, big eyes and a mischievous grin showing nine teeth.

A curious yet divided internet cannot seem to decide if they are adorable, or just bizarre.