The recent theft of a Banksy artwork from a central London art gallery has shocked the art world. The CCTV video shows the moment two men stole the iconic piece, Girl with Balloon, from the Grove Gallery on New Cavendish Street. The Met Police launched an investigation after the burglary, which took place on Sunday night.
The stolen artwork, valued at £270,000, was the only item taken from the gallery. Fortunately, it has since been recovered and returned. Two men, Larry Fraser and James Love, have been charged in connection with the theft and are set to appear at Kingston Crown Court on 9 October.
Gallery manager Lindor Mehmenaj described the incident as “completely bonkers” and expressed his relief at the recovery of the artwork. He was petrified and horrified when he discovered the theft and alerted the police immediately. The gallery had over £1.8m worth of art on display at the time, all of which has been removed and placed in storage.
The stolen Banksy piece is now safely back at the gallery, wrapped in a police evidence bag. Mehmenaj described the last few days as chaotic and refused to comment on whether he had been in contact with Banksy since the robbery.
The art world is relieved that the stolen artwork has been recovered, thanks to the swift action of the police. The investigation into the theft continues, and art lovers everywhere are grateful that this valuable piece has been returned to its rightful place.
