04.08.2025 11:21

A Satoshi Nakamoto statue, a prominent symbol of the cryptocurrency revolution, was mysteriously missing from its Lugano, Switzerland location. The bronze sculpture, a collaborative effort between artist Valentina Picozzi and Satoshigallery, had been a popular attraction since its unveiling in October 2024 at Parco Ciani di Lugano’s Foce del Cassarate. Its sudden disappearance sparked considerable intrigue and speculation.

Initial reports suggested a sophisticated theft, leading to widespread concern among cryptocurrency enthusiasts. However, Lugano police investigations, aided by surveillance footage, revealed a different story. The footage clearly showed a group of young people removing the statue from its pedestal in the early hours of Saturday morning and unceremoniously tossing it into Lake Lugano. This act of vandalism, confirmed by Police Commander Roberto Torrente to RSI, replaced the earlier theft theory. The identities of those responsible are currently under investigation.

The recovery operation commenced on the following Sunday. Members of the Swiss Rescue Society Lugano section, skilled divers, successfully retrieved the damaged statue from the lake's depths. The impact with the water had resulted in noticeable breakage, sadly diminishing the condition of the artwork. The statue's retrieval, while successful, underscores the vulnerability of even iconic public art to impulsive acts.

The incident, initially shrouded in mystery, ultimately showcased the swift action of local authorities and the dedication of rescue personnel. The recovery, though revealing damage to the sculpture, brought a measure of closure to the story, highlighting the resilience of the crypto community in the face of vandalism. The events unfolded quickly, transitioning from a suspected theft to a confirmed case of juvenile delinquency, and ultimately culminating in the retrieval of the damaged artwork.