Melania Trump Statue Vandalized: Thieves Saw Off Ankles in Bizarre Slovenian Heist

Police Launch Manhunt After Unusual Theft of Former First Lady's Wooden Likeness

In a bizarre overnight incident, a wooden statue of former First Lady Melania Trump was stolen from its display in her native Slovenia—but not before thieves made a shocking alteration. Authorities report the culprits sawed off the figure at the ankles, leaving only the feet behind in what appears to be a calculated act of vandalism.

The Strange Details of the Crime

• The theft occurred near the town of Sevnica, where Melania spent her childhood
• Local police found only the statue's feet still attached to the base
• Security cameras captured shadowy figures around 4 AM
• No ransom note or political message was left behind

The controversial statue, carved from a linden tree in 2019, had drawn mixed reactions from locals and tourists alike. Its unconventional style—some called it abstract, others unflattering—made it a frequent subject of online jokes and political commentary.

A History of Controversy

1. 2019: Artist creates statue as "tribute" to Slovenia's most famous native
2. 2020: Statue set on fire (later restored)
3. 2021: Face repainted after public complaints
4. 2024: Current vandalism/theft incident

Local police inspector Miran Pogacar stated: "We're treating this as both theft and cultural property damage. The perpetrators clearly came prepared with tools." Authorities haven't ruled out political motivations but emphasize the investigation remains open.

What Do You Think?

• Is this artistic critique or simple vandalism?
• Should governments spend money protecting controversial statues?
• Does attacking a Melania statue cross political lines or just reflect art criticism?
• Would this story get less coverage if it involved a different former first lady?