MESSAGE OF NEW BANKSY MURAL AMPLIFIED AFTER ATTEMPTS TO BE ERASED BY LONDON AUTHORITIES

An unknown street artist named Banksy painted a fresh painting on a London wall earlier this week, on September 8, 2025. In particular, the controversial piece was partially removed after attempts to remove it were made shortly after it was painted on the Queen's Building in the Royal Courts of Justice complex.

Although Banksy has never shied away from politics, the British government seems to be particularly sensitive to his most recent work. In the original graffiti, a judge wearing a complete wig and gown is seen looming overhead with a gavel in hand, while a protester is shown lying on the ground, holding a banner covered in blood. Many read the piece as a reference to recent arrests of almost 900 activists in London and pro-Palestine protests.

Guards hurried to hide the work, putting two metal barricades in front of the wall and covering it with a plastic sheet. Officials were also keen to emphasise that the Royal Courts of Justice is legally protected to maintain its original character as a listed heritage structure. "The Royal Courts of Justice is a listed building and HMCTS are obliged to maintain its original character," the HM Courts & Tribunals Service said in a statement.

There have already been attempts to remove the artwork, but internet images and videos demonstrate that they haven't been very successful thus far. What's left is a ghostly, fuzzy shape that many contend makes for an even more potent image, as though the attempt to censor it has only served to reinforce Banksy's message. Many people are now questioning whether free speech and the freedom to protest are in danger in the UK after months of arrests for marches over the government's decision to designate Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation.