Seville Local Police are investigating the theft of the Curro statue, installed just a month ago in the Glorieta de la Barqueta. Those responsible could face a fine of over 400 euros and be liable for the repair costs.
Seville Local Police have launched an investigation to identify the perpetrators of the theft of the Curro statue, the mascot of Expo 92, which disappeared from the Glorieta de la Barqueta during the early hours from Saturday to Sunday. The head of the force, Antonio Luis Moreno, has confirmed that all public and private security cameras are being reviewed to track down those responsible.
The statue, which the City Council had installed just a month ago as a tribute to the 1992 Universal Exposition, was found hours later in a nearby dry fountain, vandalised. A local resident discovered it and alerted the authorities. Since then, social media has been filled with criticism of the vandalism and a sense of insecurity in the area.
Investigation opened and possible minor offence
The head of the Local Police has detailed that a report has already been prepared and sent to the Urban Planning Department, which will be involved in the case. Additionally, the National Police will file a complaint for damages. "Together, we will locate the perpetrators so they do not go unpunished," declared Moreno.
If the culprits are identified, they will be charged with a minor offence of damage. The fine could exceed 400 euros, as estimated by the police chief himself. This amount would be in addition to the cost of replacing the statue, which they will have to bear entirely. "It will probably amount to more than 400 euros, which means it will be a minor offence, and we are working on it," he reiterated.
Institutional and community reactions
The mayor of Seville, José Luis Sanz, condemned the vandalism on his Twitter account, calling it "unacceptable". The Curro statue, an icon of the city, was placed in the Glorieta de la Barqueta to mark the 30th anniversary of Expo 92. Its theft has generated outrage among Sevillians, who view this attack as an assault on their sentimental heritage.
Local residents have expressed their concern for safety in the area around the glade, a tourist spot and a regular thoroughfare. "It’s a shame that just a few months after its installation, it has already been stolen," commented one resident. The Local Police are requesting community cooperation to provide any leads that may help identify the perpetrators.
What legal consequences do the responsible parties face?
In addition to the financial penalty, the authors of the theft will have to take responsibility for the repair of the statue, which has suffered visible damage. The Urban Planning Department will be responsible for assessing the replacement cost. The judicial process, being a minor offence, could be resolved with a fine and the obligation to compensate the City Council.
Meanwhile, the Curro statue remains under the custody of the Local Police awaiting restoration. The City Council has announced that, once repaired, it will return to its original location in the Glorieta de la Barqueta, albeit with additional security measures. Residents hope that this time it lasts more than a month.
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