The celebrated elephant statue by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, located in Piazza della Minerva in Rome, has once again fallen victim to vandalism, with a tusk broken off during an incident that occurred on the evening of February 16. This statue, which is already known to have been targeted previously, has sparked outrage among locals and authorities alike. The incident was reported around 9:00 PM, leading the municipal authorities to quickly notify supervision services about the damage done to this iconic artwork.

In response to the vandalism, the Rome Prosecutor's Office and relevant authorities have initiated an investigation into the incident. Investigators are currently examining surveillance footage from the square and surrounding areas to identify those responsible for this act of defacement. The significance of the statue, which is a notable piece of cultural heritage, magnifies the implications of such criminal acts, raising concerns over the protection of public art in the city.

As news of the vandalism spreads, public reactions have been swift, expressing both disbelief and perseverance in the fight against such destruction of cultural works. Local cultural advocates and enthusiasts are now calling for increased security measures to protect Rome's artistic treasures, emphasizing the need for vigilance in preserving the integrity of the city's historical landmarks.