UK: Banksy’s identity may be revealed as Police probe latest ‘criminal’ artwork

England based street artist and political activist, Bansky may have his identity revealed after police opened an investigation into his latest artwork at the Royal Courts of Justice in London.

The piece, which shows a judge in a wig and gown hitting a protester holding a blood-stained placard, is being reviewed by the Metropolitan Police as a possible case of criminal damage. If pursued, it could result in the artist appearing in court, where his identity may be disclosed.

Banksy, who has kept his real name secret since the mid-1990s, confirmed the work on Instagram on Monday, posting photos with the caption: “Royal Courts of Justice. London.”

The Metropolitan Police said in a statement: “On Monday September 8, officers received a report of criminal damage to the side of the Royal Courts of Justice. Inquiries continue.”

Soon after, the artwork was covered with black plastic sheets and metal barriers, with security guards placed at the site. It sits on the wall of the Queen’s building, beneath a security camera that was turned away, an act thought to carry symbolic meaning.

The mural is widely seen as commentary on the recent mass arrests of demonstrators supporting Palestine Action. Nearly 900 people were arrested during protests against the government’s ban on the group over the weekend.

A spokesperson for HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) said the artwork would be removed: “The Royal Courts of Justice is a listed building and HMCTS are obliged to maintain its original character.”

Defend Our Juries, which supports Palestine Action, described the piece as reflecting the “dystopian” banning of the group. A spokesperson said: “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. We hope everyone who is moved by Banksy’s inspiring work of art will join our next action, which will be announced soon.”

Palestine Action, founded in July 2020, was declared a terrorist organisation by the Home Office in July 2024. Membership or support now carries a penalty of up to 14 years in prison. Then-home secretary Yvette Cooper took the decision after activists broke into RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire and sprayed two military planes with red paint.

Banksy began his career in the mid-1990s, often producing works critical of government, conflict and consumer culture. Just last year, he created a series of animal-themed works across London, ending with a piece depicting a gorilla lifting a shutter door at London Zoo.

(Independent)

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