In a brazen act of criminality that has sparked outrage across the community, a cherished bronze statue commemorating boxing legend Teddy Baldock has been stolen from a public park in East London. The theft occurred at Langdon Park in Poplar, with the Metropolitan Police launching an investigation after being alerted on Sunday evening.
Details of the Theft
The statue, which is valued at an estimated £100,000, was forcibly removed from its plinth. Authorities have obtained crucial CCTV footage that captures four individuals, all dressed in black with their faces concealed, carrying out the theft. The suspects were seen using a distinctive three-wheeled cargo bike to transport the heavy bronze figure.
Police Investigation Underway
In a statement to the public, Detective Superintendent Oliver Richter confirmed that officers are diligently working to identify and apprehend those responsible. "We are treating this as a serious crime and are following all available leads," he said, emphasising the statue's significance as a monument to the "pride of Poplar." The cargo bike was reportedly covered with a high-visibility jacket, and the last known sighting was of the suspects heading in the direction of Bromley-by-Bow underground station.
Family's Anguish and Community Outcry
Martin Sax, the grandson of Teddy Baldock, expressed profound anger and distress over the incident. He voiced fears that the historically significant statue might be melted down for scrap metal, a fate that would erase a vital piece of local sporting heritage. The community has reacted with a mixture of sadness and fury, with many residents describing the statue as an iconic landmark that celebrated Baldock's achievements as a world champion boxer born in Poplar.
The theft has raised broader concerns about the security of public art and monuments in urban areas. Local authorities are now reviewing protective measures for other statues, while police continue their appeal for any witnesses or additional information that could aid the recovery of this culturally important artefact.
