Police have arrested a man after graffiti was sprayed on the statue of Sir Winston Churchill in Parliament Square, central London, prompting swift condemnation and a rapid clean-up operation.

Officers were alerted after the monument, which stands opposite the Houses of Parliament, was defaced with paint in an apparent act of vandalism.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a male suspect was detained at the scene on suspicion of criminal damage.

Authorities said investigations are ongoing and that the individual remains in custody while inquiries continue.

Specialist teams were deployed to assess and remove the graffiti, with restoration efforts beginning shortly after the incident was reported.

Officials indicated that no permanent structural damage to the bronze statue had been identified, though conservation experts are evaluating the surface to ensure full preservation.

The statue of Churchill, Britain’s wartime prime minister and one of the most prominent figures of the twentieth century, has previously been targeted during periods of political protest.

As a Grade II-listed monument, it is protected under heritage legislation, and any damage carries potential legal consequences.

Political figures across the spectrum expressed disapproval of the act, emphasising the importance of safeguarding national memorials regardless of contemporary debate.

Law enforcement authorities reiterated that criminal damage to public monuments is treated seriously and that those responsible can expect to face prosecution.

The incident comes amid broader discussions about public statues and historical memory in the United Kingdom.

For now, police have confirmed that a suspect has been apprehended and that the monument is being restored, with further updates expected as the investigation proceeds.