Stolen Banksy 'Girl with Balloon' Recovered, Suspects Charged

Banksy's iconic painting 'Girl with Balloon' has been recovered after being stolen from a London gallery. Two men, aged 47 and 53, have been charged with burglary and are in police custody. Originally created in 2002, the artwork is renowned for its political themes and global popularity.

One of British street artist Banksy's best-known paintings, 'Girl with Balloon,' has been found following its theft from a London gallery last week. Two men have been charged in connection with the burglary, police disclosed on Friday. The painting, which illustrates a young girl reaching for a red heart-shaped balloon, has multiple murals depicting the same image in London and other locations worldwide.

The 'Girl with Balloon' was the only item stolen on September 8. Authorities confirmed the painting would be returned to the gallery. The two suspects, aged 47 and 53, were charged with burglary on Thursday and are presently in police custody.

In court, the suspects were granted bail and are expected to appear before a judge again on October 9. The 'Girl with Balloon' first emerged on the streets of Shoreditch, London in 2002. Banksy subsequently recreated the artwork on London's South Bank in 2004 and at Israel's barrier in the West Bank in 2005.

Banksy, who hails from Bristol, has gained global recognition for his satirical graffiti often featuring political themes. His artwork has since become extremely popular and highly valuable.

(With inputs from agencies.)