Banksy Artwork Stolen and Recovered in London

A Banksy artwork, 'Girl With Balloon,' valued at £270,000, was stolen from the Grove Gallery in London during a brazen burglary on September 8, 2024. Security footage captured the thief smashing a window and stealing the piece, which was the only item taken during the heist. Following a swift investigation by the Metropolitan Police, the artwork was recovered and returned to the gallery, with two suspects, Larry Fraser and James Love, charged with burglary. Gallery manager Lindor Mehmetaj described the incident as 'the most horrific experience' of his life, noting that the gallery had never experienced such a crime before. This theft occurred during the final weekend of an exhibition celebrating Banksy's work. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about art theft, particularly for high-value pieces from renowned artists.