LONDON - London police have made a second arrest in connection with the alleged theft of a street artwork by the renowned street artist Banksy. The artwork, featuring a stop sign adorned with three military drones, was reportedly stolen from a street corner in the south London section of Peckham.

Authorities announced on Sunday that a man in his 40s had been taken into custody on suspicion of theft and criminal damage. This comes after an initial arrest on Saturday of a suspect in his 20s, who has since been released on bail.

Witnesses who arrived at the scene shortly after Banksy posted a photo of the artwork on Instagram described their shock at witnessing a man using bolt cutters to remove the sign while another person stood nearby, steadying a bike.

The stolen artwork has garnered significant attention due to its political and social commentary on the use of military drones. Banksy, known for his thought-provoking street art, often tackles contentious issues through his work.

The Metropolitan police are actively investigating the theft and are examining surveillance footage from the area to gather more information about the incident. They have urged anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.

The value of Banksy's artwork has skyrocketed in recent years, with collectors and art enthusiasts alike seeking to own a piece of his elusive and often controversial creations. The theft of this particular artwork has raised concerns within the art community about the vulnerability of outdoor exhibits and the importance of proper security measures.

Banksy's identity remains undisclosed, adding to the mystique surrounding his work and making him one of the most celebrated and enigmatic contemporary artists. The artist's ability to provoke thought and spark conversations through his art continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities remain determined to recover the stolen artwork and bring those responsible to justice.