Teddy Bear Heist in Berlin
Following the shameful theft of a cherished teddy bear, compassionate individuals offer replacement cuddly toys as comfort.
Berlin/Bielefeld - A small teddy bear theft has struck a chord with many people across Germany.
Marcus Erlenbauer, a Bielefeld art gallery owner, has been inundated with encouraging messages - a few even by phone - over the past few days, after more than a week of hunting for his cherished little bear dubbed "Mini." Despite the extensive media coverage and public response, "Mini" remains unfound.
About the missing "Mini"
"Mini" is just 12 centimeters tall, and a special lady offered to craft a duplicate based on a photo, said Erlenbauer. Tragically, "Mini" is more than just a toy - it was a gift from his late mother. Another woman from Cologne was keen to give him a sibling from her collection, but Erlenbauer knows it wouldn't be the same as his original "Mini." Emotions still run high almost a week later, but he hasn't lost hope, "maybe St. Anthony will still be on my side."
Technically, "Mini" wasn't lost but stolen. Erlenbauer and his partner left their valuables unattended while dining with an actress at a restaurant on Unter den Linden on June 3. Thieves struck.
The Hunt for "Mini"
An extensive search for "Mini" in a yellow onesie has been ongoing in Berlin since last week. A $1,000 reward is offered for the safe return of the beloved little bear, as displayed on posters scattered around the city. In addition, a dedicated website seeks tips in multiple languages - English, Polish, Romanian, and Bulgarian. Tips can be submitted at 0176 630 57 301.
Despite numerous searches and tips, there's been no word on the whereabouts of "Mini" or any leads on potential replacements from the public. It appears that it's going to take a bit more than a "Mini 2.0" or a sibling from a collection to soothe Erlenbauer's loss.
Marcus Erlenbauer, in the midst of his home-and-garden, found solace in the support of relationships, as he received encouraging messages from people across Germany. However, the lifestyle of his cherished "Mini" remains a mystery, still missing amidst the bustling city, and a copy, no matter how well crafted, would never replace the home-and-garden-lived memories of his beloved little bear.
