PARIS (AP) — Authorities say two pigs' heads were found hanging outside a mosque in southern France.

The local mayor denounced what she described as "intimidation."

Pigs are considered unclean by Muslims, who are forbidden from eating pork and are currently observing the holy month of Ramadan.

A statement from the office of Mayor Brigitte Bareges in Montauban said the heads were found attached to entrance pillars outside the Salam Mosque, with a large pool of blood on the ground below.

The mayor condemned "this odious and blasphemous act toward the Muslim community."

France has an estimated 5 million Muslims, a population that has struggled with discrimination.

Associated Press
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