Banksy’s latest artwork has sparked a police investigation into “criminal damage”
The elusive street artist Banksy could finally be revealed after a police probe was launched into his latest artwork, which portrays a judge attacking a protester with a gavel.
The Metropolitan Police are investigating the graffiti found at the Royal Courts of Justice in London as potential “criminal damage”.
If brought to court, Banksy, who has managed to keep his identity secret for over 25 years, would be forced to publicly disclose his name, according to The Telegraph. This comes as the Met Police arrest 890 Palestine Action protesters amid escalating violence. The news comes as Palestine Action protest sees nearly 900 people arrested by Met Police.
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His explosive new artwork has sparked outrage.
Discovered on Monday, the graffiti shows a judge poised to strike a protester with a gavel, reports the Express.
The protester is seen holding a white picket sign splattered with red paint, symbolising blood.
The artwork will be removed from the Grade I-listed building, stated HM Courts and Tribunals (HMCTS).
A spokesperson added: “The Royal Courts of Justice is a listed building and HMCTS are obliged to maintain its original character.”
Palestine protest groups are claiming victory
Defend Our Juries, which has organised protests in support of Palestine Action, claimed the artwork was a depiction of the “dystopian” proscription of the group.
“Banksy’s work of art on the walls of the Royal Courts of Justice powerfully depicts the brutality unleashed by Yvette Cooper on protesters by proscribing Palestine Action,” a spokesman said.
“We hope everyone who is moved by Banksy’s inspiring work of art will join our next action, which will be announced soon.”
Security was scrambled at the courts
The graffiti at the Royal Courts of Justice, home to the High Court and the Court of Appeal, was positioned beneath a CCTV camera.
After its discovery, security guards were posted beside the artwork, which was then covered with black plastic sheeting and metal barriers.
A spokesman for the Met stated: “On Monday Sept 8, officers received a report of criminal damage to the side of the Royal Courts of Justice. Inquiries continue.”
Criminal damage can lead to a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment if it causes more than £5,000 worth of damage.
Offences where the damage is valued less than £5,000 could result in a maximum sentence of three months or a £2,500 fine.
Mystery artist risks being unmasked
Banksy’s identity has been a constant source of speculation since his first artwork appeared in 1999.
Last summer, he made headlines with his animal-themed collection in the capital, culminating with a gorilla attempting to lift a shutter at the entrance to London Zoo.