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New CCTV footage has been released showing a sculpture of a black panther, worth more than £100,000, being stolen from an exhibition in Chelsea.

It shows the man police want to speak to walk up to the valuable statue and appear to place it under his jacket, before walking away.

The theft of the bronze sculpture, created by François Pompon in 1925, happened during the Masterpiece Art Fair, held at the Royal Hospital, on July 1.

Security noticed the work of art, measuring 14cm high and 37cm long, missing from its plinth at around 1.30pm.

The CCTV footage shows the suspect pick it up and walk out the building.

Detective Constable Pete O’Brien, from Kensington & Chelsea CID, said: “We know he left in a taxi which dropped him at Appold Street at the junction with Primrose Street near Liverpool Street station.

“If you recognise the man or know of his whereabouts please contact police.”

Police had released a CCTV image of the suspect earlier this month.

Anyone with information can contact DC O’Brien on 020 8246 0237 or on 101. To remain anonymous please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.