London detectives are currently conducting investigations into the theft of a Banksy street sign valued at an astounding £500,000 in southeast London. The stolen stop sign, adorned with three military drones, was positively identified as an authentic Banksy installation before it was audaciously taken less than an hour later.

Upon receiving reports from the council in southeast London, the Metropolitan Police has deployed CID officers to apprehend the individuals responsible for the theft. Video footage of the incident depicts two individuals using bolt cutters to forcibly remove the sign from its post, with one of them absconding with the valuable sign. As of now, the perpetrators remain at large as the investigation is ongoing.

In an effort to recover the stolen artwork, the council has urged anyone with information to contact the police and aid in the case. Jasmine Ali of Southwark council expressed optimism in the retrieval of the sign, emphasizing its significance as a work of art intended for the community’s enjoyment.

Furthermore, street art experts have provided insights into potential motives behind Banksy’s installation. Ulrich Blanché, a street art expert from Heidelberg University, suggests a connection between the sign’s location and the depiction of military drones, hinting at a critique of the global arms trade. Additionally, many followers of Banksy on Instagram interpreted the artwork as a plea for peace in the Gaza Strip.

The significant value of the stolen sign has also prompted discussions, with some estimating it to be worth up to £500,000. John Brandler, an art gallery owner, even suggested that the media attention garnered by the theft has further elevated the sign’s value.

This incident adds to Banksy’s recent works, including the Valentine’s Day Mascara mural in Kent, and serves as a stark reminder of the artist’s ability to captivate audiences with his thought-provoking creations.