LONDON - The investigation into the alleged theft of a unique art piece by renowned street artist Banksy took a significant turn as London police announced the arrest of a second suspect. The artwork in question featured a stop sign adorned with three military drones.

According to the Metropolitan Police, a man in his 40s is now in custody on suspicion of theft and criminal damage. This arrest follows the detention of a suspect in his 20s who was taken into custody on Saturday but was subsequently released on bail.

Eyewitnesses present at a street corner in Peckham, south London, were left astonished on Friday. They arrived at the scene less than an hour after Banksy had posted a photo of the artwork on Instagram. The witnesses described watching one individual, equipped with bolt cutters, removing the sign while another person steadied a bicycle nearby.

The stolen artwork, a powerful statement on the use of military drones, has caused a stir within the art community and among Banksy fans. Banksy, known for his thought-provoking and politically charged street art, has gained worldwide recognition for his anonymous works often appearing overnight in unexpected locations.

The investigation into this brazen theft is ongoing, with London police urging anyone with information to come forward. They are particularly interested in any details pertaining to the whereabouts of the stolen artwork. The value of the freshly vanished artwork is still unknown, but speculators estimate it to be worth a substantial amount due to its cultural significance.

The arrest of a second suspect brings new hope for the recovery of the stolen masterpiece. Authorities are now focusing their efforts on gathering evidence and conducting thorough interrogations to establish the motive behind the theft and to ascertain if there are any further individuals involved.

The impact of this incident extends beyond the mere loss of an artwork. It serves as a reminder of the challenges art faces in both its preservation and public accessibility. As the investigation unfolds, Banksy fans and art enthusiasts await answers, hopeful for the triumphant return of the stolen artwork to its rightful place, where it can continue to inspire and spark conversations.