Banksy could be UNMASKED as police launch probe into explosive court graffiti

Banksy could finally be unmasked aftera police investigation was launched into a new artwork depicting a judge attacking a protester with a gavel.

The Metropolitan Police said it was investigating the graffiti at the Royal Courts of Justice in London as potential "criminal damage".

Banksy, who has remained anonymous for more than 25 years, would be required to publicly disclose his name if he was brought to court, reports The Telegraph. The news emerges as Met Police arrest 890 Palestine Action protesters as masked thugs turn violent.

Explosive artwork sparks fury

The graffiti artist's latest artwork was found on Monday and depicted a judge raising a gavel as if to strike a protester.

The protester holds a white picket sign spattered with red paint, representing blood.

The artwork would be removed from the Grade I-listed building, HM Courts and Tribunals (HMCTS) said.

A spokesman added: "The Royal Courts of Justice is a listed building and HMCTS are obliged to maintain its original character."

Palestine protest groups claim victory

Defend Our Juries - which has organised protests in support of Palestine Action - claimed the artwork was a depiction of the "dystopian" proscription of the group.

"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," a spokesman said.

"We hope everyone who is moved by Banksy's inspiring work of art will join our next action, which will be announced soon."

Security scramble at courts

The graffiti at the Royal Courts of Justice, which is home to the High Court and the Court of Appeal, sat beneath a CCTV camera.

Security guards were stationed beside the artwork after its discovery and it was covered with black plastic sheeting and metal barriers.

A spokesman for the Met said: "On Monday Sept 8, officers received a report of criminal damage to the side of the Royal Courts of Justice. Inquiries continue."

Criminal damage carries a maximum sentence of 10 years' imprisonment if it causes more than £5,000 of damage.

Offences where the damage is worth less than £5,000 have a maximum sentence of three months or a £2,500 fine.

Mystery artist faces exposure

Banksy's identity has been the source of constant speculation since his first artwork in 1999.

He made headlines last summer with his animal-themed collection in the capital, which concluded with a gorilla trying to lift a shutter at the entrance to London Zoo.