Bexley Trading Standards confiscated more than 1,000 counterfeit Labubu dolls, from the popular Pop Mart collectible series, from two shops in the borough.
A further 128 unsafe toys were also seized during the operation.
Councillor Richard Diment, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “This is a stark reminder that not everything trending online is safe for children.
Our Trading Standards team is working hard to protect families in Bexley from unsafe and counterfeit goods.
We urge residents to buy only from trusted retailers and report any concerns immediately.”
The counterfeit Labubu dolls, which have surged in popularity through viral social media trends, were found to pose serious risks.
These included choking hazards, no safety testing, and misleading packaging.
One doll was so poorly made that its eye popped out with a single squeeze.
The packaging also featured fake UKCA and CE markings, intended to mislead consumers into believing the toys were compliant with safety standards.
Trading Standards officers warned that the dolls could contain harmful chemicals such as phthalates.
The public is being advised to look for genuine UKCA or CE markings, manufacturer details, and official Pop Mart branding such as a holographic sticker, QR code, and exactly nine teeth.
Officers have also issued warnings to businesses, urging them to conduct due diligence on suppliers, keep full traceability records, and avoid buying from unknown or ‘cash-in-hand’ sellers.
Selling unsafe toys is a criminal offence.
Residents who believe they may have purchased an unsafe toy are advised to stop children from using it and report it to Trading Standards.
Reports can be made through the Citizens Advice Consumer Service by calling 0800 144 8848.
