Police investigation into world-famous artist

The mysterious artist Banksy has drawn attention with his latest work painted on the wall of the High Court of Justice in England. In the piece, a judge is depicted striking a protester lying on the ground and holding a blank sign with a gavel. Banksy confirmed on social media that this work belongs to him.

Due to the damage caused to the wall, which is a historic structure, the Metropolitan Police Service has launched an investigation into the incident under the scope of "criminal damage." The work was first surrounded by barriers and subsequently removed using chemical methods.

Police stated that they received a report regarding the incident and that the investigation is ongoing. If a case is filed, Banksy may be required to testify in court, which could make it difficult for the artist to remain anonymous.

Banksy began to gain recognition in Bristol in the late 1990s and has managed to keep his identity secret ever since. His former manager, Steve Lazarides, had described Banksy's secrecy initially as a protective reflex and later as an obsession. The artist's anonymity has turned him into a "folk hero."

While Banksy's works fetch millions of dollars, experts suggest that the revelation of his identity would not affect his brand value, but that his "legendary" impact might diminish as the mystery surrounding him fades.

News Source: 12punto