In Tampere, Finland, a bizarre theft has left the community perplexed as a hefty fish statue was stolen. Unlike typical thefts involving items from supermarkets or markets, this particular case involves a significant and heavy sculpture rather than edible fish. The missing piece is part of a statue named 'Leikkivät Kalat' designed by Finnish sculptor Sisko Petäjä in 1954, which depicts three large, whimsical fish with bright eyes and striking fins, located in the yard of a former children's home in Nekala.

The statue, which has become a recognizable fixture in the neighborhood, went missing over the weekend of March 21st, with only two of the three fish remaining. In a photograph taken at the scene, evidence shows that metal fittings for the absent fish were left behind. This unusual event has attracted attention from local media, with Aamulehti being the first to report on the theft, raising questions about the motives behind such an extraordinary act and the potential implications for public art security in the area.

The demise of such a unique piece of art not only disappoints art enthusiasts but also prompts concerns regarding the community's connection to public installations. Sisko Petäjä, the creator of 'Leikkivät Kalat', is an acclaimed Finnish sculptor whose work, although initially prominent in the 1950s, is now experiencing renewed attention due to this incident. The fate of the stolen fish is still unknown, and the property owner has also not provided any insights into the situation, leaving residents puzzled about what might have happened to this beloved sculpture.