'Labubu' toys caught in customs: Ministry of Trade launches operation

Ministry of Trade Customs Enforcement teams carried out two separate operations at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport and Şırnak Habur Customs Gate as part of the fight against smuggling.

A total of 132 plush toys were found in their luggage.

Istanbul Customs Enforcement Anti-Smuggling and Intelligence Directorate teams monitored two passengers arriving at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport as part of their risk analysis studies.

After the passengers exited using the green line, stating that they had no items to declare, a detailed search was carried out and a total of 132 plush toys were found in their luggage.

The investigation determined that these toys were of a type known as "Labubu," inspired by a digital character. The products, whose suitability for sale is currently being evaluated by the Ministry of Trade, and with a market value of approximately 659,000 Turkish Lira, were seized.

It was determined that 19,919 push-button phones were carried.

A truck entering Türkiye from Kapıkule Customs Gate within the scope of the transit transportation regime was directed to Habur Customs Gate with a Transit Escort Document.

Customs

The vehicle was tracked from its starting point by the Hafaza Anti-Smuggling and Intelligence teams. A detailed search in Habur revealed that the vehicle was carrying 19,919 push-button phones, rather than the declared 20,000 smartphones.

The total value of these smuggled items, intended to be left in the country without declaration, was calculated at approximately 122,170,000 Turkish Lira. The items in question were seized and necessary procedures were initiated.

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