Hoax and Publicity Attempt

Graffiti Artist Banksy Arrested In London

The elusive graffiti artist, political activist, film director, painter and long time fugitive that for years has gone by the pseudonymous name of Banksy, was arrested early the morning of October 20 by London’s Metropolitan Police. After hours of questioning and a raid of his London art studio, his true name and identity have finally been revealed.

The City of London Police say Banksy’s real name is Paul Horner, a 35-year old male born in Liverpool, England. After today’s arrest it is unclear who else will be sought in connection with Banksy’s arrest.

Banksy displays his art on public walls and even goes as far as to build physical prop pieces. He does not sell his work directly; however, art auctioneers have been known to attempt to sell his street art on location and leave the problem of its removal in the hands of the winning bidder.

One of his recent Graffitis

In 2011, Banksy was a no-show to accept his Oscar for his documentary Exit The Gift Shop, though his artwork was seen all over Hollywood in days leading up to the awards.

As soon as news of the arrest was made, the City of London Police say they began receiving dozens of phone calls from people either claiming to be Banksy, or claiming to be with him. As of 6 PM London time, hundreds of people were gathered outside the London Police Department chanting “I’m Banksy!” and holding signs demanding his release. Various local news stations have reported witnessing the crowd parting for a blind woman who attempted to turn herself into authorities claiming that she was in fact the real Banksy.

This is what the National Report a US based humor Magazine published on their web site today and in a press release. We have to give the writer some credit, though — the details in the press release are pretty specific. A few publications seem to have fallen for the hoax, including the German national TV ARD.

So don’t believe it. We just placed a call to London’s Metropolitan Police, who confirmed that the Banksy is still safely under cover.