Banksy's latest mural critiques justice system amid protests in London

A new mural by the enigmatic street artist Banksy has emerged on the side of the Royal Courts of Justice building in central London.

The artwork depicts a judge, dressed in a traditional wig and black robe, striking a protester lying on the ground, with blood splattering onto their placard. Although the mural does not reference any specific cause or event, it coincides with the recent arrest of nearly 900 individuals during a protest in London against the ban on Palestine Action.

Shortly after its unveiling, the mural was covered with large sheets of plastic and metal barriers, and court officials informed the BBC that it would be removed. The Metropolitan Police reported that they had received a complaint of criminal damage and would continue their investigations.

A spokesperson for HM Courts and Tribunals noted that the Royal Courts of Justice is a listed building and that they are "obliged to maintain its original character."

Banksy chose a spot on the external wall of the Queen's Building, part of the Royal Courts of Justice complex, located on the typically quiet Carey Street, which was bustling with onlookers taking photos of the newly concealed mural.

One of the security officers outside mentioned they were unsure how long they would need to stay on guard, adding, "At least it's not raining."

The Bristol-based artist posted a photo of the mural on Instagram, a common method for him to authenticate his work, captioning it: "Royal Courts Of Justice. London."

Labour peer Baroness Harriet Harman suggested that the mural serves as a "protest about the law," though she did not specify which legislation she was referring to. She remarked, "Parliament makes the law, and the judges simply interpret the law," and noted that there is no evidence showing judges have been excessively restricting protests beyond parliamentary intent.

Banksy's stenciled graffiti often critiques government policies, war, and capitalism. Last summer, he launched an animal-themed campaign in London, featuring nine works, including a gorilla that appeared to lift a shutter at the entrance to London Zoo. Other notable pieces included piranhas swimming on a police sentry box and a howling wolf on a satellite dish, which was removed from a shop in Peckham shortly after its reveal.