DUTCH REFEREE ROB DIEPERINK DIES WEEKS AFTER REMOVAL FROM WORLD CUP OFFICIATING LIST. (PHOTO).

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 Dutch referee Rob Dieperink dies weeks after removal from World Cup officiating list Dutch referee Rob Dieperink has died at the age of 38, weeks after FIFA removed him from its list of officials for the World Cup. The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) confirmed his death in a statement, saying it was “shocked and deeply saddened” by the news. His cause of death has not been disclosed. Dieperink was arrested in April by the Metropolitan Police in the United Kingdom following a report of an alleged sexual assault involving a teenage boy in London. A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said officers responded on April 9 to a report of sexual assault at an address in Croydon and arrested a man in his 30s on suspicion of the offence. Police later said that after reviewing available evidence, including CCTV footage and digital devices, the investigation had concluded that “the evidential threshold had not been met” and no further action would be taken. Following the investigation, FIFA co...
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THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN LABUBUS STOLEN AS DEMAND FOR TOY KEEPS RISING. (PHOTO).

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 Thousands of dollars in Labubus stolen as demand for toy keeps rising

Authorities say thieves stole dozens of boxes of the sought-after Labubu toy—worth about $7,000—from a store in La Puente, California, earlier this week.

The break-in happened around 1:30 a.m. on August 6 at One Stop Sales, a shop known for selling Labubu dolls and accessories. Surveillance video posted by the store shows at least four masked individuals breaking in, clearing shelves, and leaving with boxes of merchandise. Photos from the scene show shattered glass at the entrance and products strewn across the floor.

Deputies said the suspects are still at large, but the stolen white Toyota Tacoma used in the burglary has been recovered.

Labubu, first released in China in 2015, has surged in global popularity, appearing with celebrities like Rihanna, Lizzo, and BLACKPINK’s Lisa. Produced by the Chinese designer toy company Pop Mart, the dolls retail for about $30 but can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars on the resale market. Pop Mart’s 2024 annual report said revenue doubled to $1.8 billion, fueled in part by a “blind box” system where buyers don’t know which version they’re getting until they open it—encouraging repeat purchases.

The craze has spawned a black market for counterfeit versions, nicknamed “Lafufus,” which are made with cheaper materials and sometimes differ in appearance from genuine Labubus. Collectors often view the dolls not only as toys but also as fashion accessories, with some people buying them to match outfits or complete themed collections.


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