Limited edition artwork gift to Liverpool was stolen
The work, a limited edition print of an artwork by Nelson Mandela, was reported to have been taken from the Mandela Room at the listed building just before 7.45am on Monday, October 13.
The suspect removed the print from the frame, which was left damaged, and was seen leaving St George’s Hall shortly after the incident.
Detectives conducted a forensic examination of the scene and have analysed hours of CCTV footage in and around the building, and have liaised with St George’s Hall and City Watch since it was reported.
Following enquiries, a second CCTV image has been issued of a man officers believe could have information to assist their enquiries.
Anyone who recognises the man pictured is urged to contact police.
Detective Inspector Paula Jones said: “Our investigation into this incident has been extensive, and as a result of those enquiries we have identified an image of a man we believe could help us make further progress.
“The print was a highly valued addition to the Mandela Room at St George’s Hall gifted to the Liverpool-based Mandela8 organisation in 2018 by Dr Makaziwi Mandela, a daughter of Nelson Mandela.
“It is a powerful image of hands bound, above the word imprisonment and Nelson Mandela’s signature, and we would urge anyone who has seen it since the theft or been offered it for sale to contact police or Crimestoppers.
“If you are the man pictured or recognise him, please contact officers as we believe he may have information that could prove vital to our enquiries into this incident.”
Sonia Bassey, Chair of Mandela8, said: “We are deeply saddened by the theft of this significant artwork gifted to Mandela8 by Nelson Mandela’s daughter Dr Maki Mandela in 2018.
“The Nelson Mandela print, as part of the Struggle series, holds great cultural and emotional value, not only to Mandela8, but to the people of Liverpool.
“It symbolises the city’s enduring connection to Nelson Mandela’s legacy of peace, resilience and social justice and served as a lasting reminder of the city’s solidarity with South Africa’s struggle for freedom.
“We urge anyone who knows this man or has any information about where the print is to come forward and help ensure its safe return so that it can continue to inspire our communities for generations to come. We are grateful to Merseyside Police for all the work undertaken.”
A Merseyside Police statement added: “Anyone with information on the theft is asked to contact Merseyside Police social media desk via X @MerPolCC or on Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ with reference 25000841827.
“You can also report information via our website: https://www.merseyside.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/ or call 101.
“Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their website here: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/forms/give-information-anonymously . In an emergency always call 999.”
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