Paddington Bear in police custody: Iconic bear found after being kidnapped from UK park
Paddington Bear was taken into police custody after the iconic character was kidnapped from a UK park bench.
Iconic character Paddington Bear is not someone you would usually associate with criminal behaviour. But shocked fans were stopped in their tracks when pictures emerged of the beloved bear - in the back of a police van.
But rest assured, the country's favourite marmalade lover has not taken up a life of crime - he was in custody after being kidnapped. A statue of Paddington was given a police escort after being targeted by vandals and removed from a bench - just days after being reinstalled.
The bear had been temporarily removed from Southampton's Guildhall Square in April after its bench was destroyed and put back in place last week. But in the early hours of Sunday, Paddington was once again reported missing.
Thankfully, Hampshire Constabulary said officers found Paddington abandoned but undamaged in a park. Southampton Police said: "He was recovered safely and, as you can see, was given a police escort while arrangements were made for his return.
"Thankfully, he was found in one piece - and he certainly needed a marmalade sandwich after his ordeal. While we know Paddington is a much-loved character and this may raise a smile, damage to public property is a serious offence.
"The statue brings joy to residents, visitors, families and businesses in the city centre, and it is disappointing to see him targeted again so soon after recent repairs. Please look after Paddington. He is a bear of very good standing in our city."