Secretive Street artist Banksy sparked debates online after he dropped his latest mural at London’s Royal Courts of Justice

LONDON: Banksy has popped up again — this time with a surprise mural on the side of the Royal Courts of Justice in central London. The new artwork shows a judge in full robe and wig hitting a protester on the ground, with blood flying off a broken placard. It’s bold, brutal, and already making headlines.

The mural showed up just two days after a big protest in the city that saw nearly 900 arrests, which has got people talking online. While Banksy hasn’t said what the piece is about, the timing has sparked plenty of guesses.

Crowds started gathering at the spot, but authorities were quick to cover it up with plastic and metal barriers. Since the court building is protected as a heritage site, officials say they have to keep its original look — which means the mural might not stay up for long.

Banksy's latest mural outside UK court sparks debate online

The police are calling it criminal damage and have started an investigation. As always, Banksy confirmed the piece in classic style — just a photo on Instagram with the caption: “Royal Courts Of Justice. London.”

Also Read: Secretive street artist Banksy reveals his last animal painting on London Zoo gate

This mural fits right into Banksy’s usual streak — sharp, cheeky, and loaded with meaning. Last year, he did a nine-part animal-themed series across London, and each one got people talking.

No one knows how long this new piece will stay visible, but one thing’s clear — Banksy’s still got the world watching.

Also Read: Shocking! Banksy did not trademark his name, fights court battle to retain his name.

For those who came in late, Banksy is a world-famous yet anonymous British street artist, political activist, and filmmaker known for his provocative stencilled graffiti that often tackles themes like war, consumerism, capitalism, and authority. Emerging from the Bristol underground art scene in the 1990s, his works appear suddenly in public spaces, usually carrying sharp social or political commentary, and are quickly claimed by him through posts on Instagram. Despite global fame and his art selling for millions at auctions, Banksy’s true identity has never been confirmed, adding to the mystery and intrigue that surround his work.