In a bold theft, the well-known “Girl with Balloon” by Banksy was stolen from the Grove Gallery in London. The incident, captured by surveillance cameras, features an individual wearing a mask breaking the gallery’s glass door late Sunday evening.
The burglar swiftly proceeded to the famed “Girl with Balloon” artwork, which depicts a young girl reaching out towards a floating red, heart-shaped balloon. This piece, one of Banksy’s most recognized creations, is valued at approximately $355,000.
The Metropolitan Police of London apprehended two individuals, **Larry Fraser**, 47, and **James Love**, 53, in connection to the heist. Both are currently held on charges of non-residential burglary and made a court appearance on Thursday. They are scheduled for another hearing on October 9.
Thankfully, the “Girl with Balloon” has been successfully retrieved and reinstated at the Grove Gallery. The police are continuing their investigation into the matter, aimed at preventing future similar occurrences and improving security protocols for the protection of invaluable art in public galleries. This episode starkly highlights the risks faced by high-profile art displayed in accessible locations.
