[media-credit name=”Instagram” link=”https://www.instagram.com/p/DOVoHlVDMIU/?hl=en&img_index=1″ width=1440 align=”center”]
[/media-credit]
A striking new artwork by the elusive street artist Banksy has suddenly appeared on the exterior of London’s Royal Courts of Justice, only to be swiftly covered and slated for removal. The mural—revealed in early September 2025—depicts a judge in full wig and gown violently striking a protester who lies prone on the ground, clutching a blood-splattered placard.
Although Banksy’s signature had not been found on the structure itself, the artist confirmed ownership by posting the mural on his Instagram account—a customary move to validate authenticity. Security personnel rapidly moved to obscure the image with black plastic sheets and metal barriers, whilst surveillance and guards ensured no photographs were taken.
[media-credit name=”Instagram” link=”https://www.instagram.com/p/DOVoHlVDMIU/?hl=en&img_index=2″ width=1440 align=”center”]
[/media-credit]
Authorities cited the historic and protected status of the Royal Courts of Justice—one of the United Kingdom’s most iconic judicial buildings—as the reason for removal, stating they are “obliged to maintain its original character”. Media reports also noted that police have been notified, as the work has been registered as a case of criminal damage.
Critics and commentators interpreted the powerful imagery as a comment on the UK government’s crackdown on pro-Palestinian activism, particularly following the arrest of nearly nine-hundred protesters supporting the group Palestine Action, which had recently been proscribed under terrorism legislation. Activist group Defend Our Juries praised the mural as a “powerful depiction of brutality” and a critique of state repression.
Though its time in the open has been brief, the mural has ignited debate about freedom of expression, the tension between public art and heritage preservation, and the role of street art in political discourse. Whether the piece will be salvaged, archived, or permanently concealed remains uncertain—but its impact has already been made clear.
